Answer:
Half payment in the first year =$ 18,509.30
Explanation:
We need to note that as at today, Ruth is already 10 years old.The amount required for her college education in the first year will be due in 8 years. And this can be determined by inflating the annual cost of $20,000 by 8% yearly for 8 years.
This is done using the formula below:
Inflated amount = A × (1+r)^n
r = 8% , n - 8, A- 20,000
Inflated amount = 20,000× (1.08)^8
= 37,018.60
The college cost for first year = $37,018.60
John Hedrick wishes to pay half =
=$37,018.60/2
Half payment in the first year =$ 18,509.30