Answer: 8.5%
Step-by-step explanation:
Formula : Simple interest = (Principal) x (annual interest rate) x (Time) (i)
Given: Principal : P = $ 17,500
Time : 2 years
Simple interest : I = $ 2975
Let r = annual
[tex]2975=17500\times(r)\times(2)[/tex]
[tex]\Rightarrow\ r=\dfrac{2975}{17500\times2}\\\\\Rightarrow\ r=0.085\\\\\Rightarrow\ r=0.085\times100\\\\\Rightarrow\ r=8.5\%[/tex]
Hence, The annual interest rate was 8.5%.