Final answer:
To determine when the balance will exceed $500, we can use the compound interest formula: A = P(1 + r/n)^(nt). By solving for t, we find that the balance will first exceed $500 after approximately 2 years and 1 month.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine when the balance will exceed $500, we can use the compound interest formula:
A = P(1 + r/n)^(nt)
Where:
A is the balance after time t
P is the principal amount, which is $400 in this case
r is the interest rate, which is 2.4%
n is the number of times the interest is compounded per year, which is 12 (monthly)
t is the number of years
Let's solve for t when the balance exceeds $500:
$500 = $400(1 + 0.024/12)^(12t)
Divide both sides by $400:
1.25 = (1.002)^12t
Take the natural logarithm of both sides:
ln(1.25) = ln((1.002)^12t)
Using logarithm properties, we can simplify the equation:
12t = ln(1.25)/ln(1.002)
Finally, solve for t:
t = ln(1.25)/ln(1.002) / 12
Using a calculator, we find that t is approximately 2.08 years. So, the balance will first exceed $500 after approximately 2 years and 1 month.