Elena has $500 to invest. She can put it in an account that earns 4% compounded semi-annually or in an account that earns 5% simple interest. After 2 years, how much will be in each account, including the principal?

compound interest = $541.21

Simple interest = $550

Step-by-step explanation:

A = P (1 + r/n) nt  

Where:  

A = Future value of investment (principal + interest)  

P = Principal Amount  

r = Nominal Interest Rate (decimal form, 4/100= 0.04)

n= number of compounding periods in each year (2)

t= years

Replacing with the values given  

A= 500 (1+ 0.04/2)^2(2)

A= $541.21

I = p x r x t

Where:  

I= interest

Replacing with the values given:

I = 500x (5/100) x 2

I = 50

Adding the interest to the amount invested.

500 + 50 = $550

Feel free to ask for more if needed or if you did not understand something.

answer: the answer is 35%