An investment earns 13% the first year, earns 20% the second year, and loses 15% the third year. The total compound return over the 3 years was .

The total compound return over the 3 years is 15.26%

Step-by-step explanation:

Let the initial investment sum be assumed to be X

The total return after each year can be calculated as follows:

After First year: X + (13% of X) = 1.13X

After Second year: 1.13X + (20% of 1.13X) = 1.13X + 0.226X = 1.356X

After Third year: 1.356X - (15% of 1.356X) = 1.356X - 0.2034X = 1.1526X

It is apparent from here that after the third year, the investment has increased the initial X, by 0.1526X, which is 15.26%.

The total compound return over the 3 years is 15.26%

the least common denominatore of 7 and 2 is 9

step-by-step explanation:

7+2=9

5=812a+9+3

step 1: simplify both sides of the equation.

5=812a+9+3

5=(812a)+(9+3)(combine like terms)

5=812a+12

5=812a+12

step 2: flip the equation.

812a+12=5

step 3: subtract 12 from both sides.

812a+12−12=5−12

812a=−7

step 4: divide both sides by 812.

812a /812 = -7/812

a= -1/116

so the answer is

a=   -1/116