Identify the annuity type: the annuity that represents a debt service pattern to recover the initial capital (principal) in equal periodic payments is called what?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Capital recovery annuity

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Debt service for capital projects is often structured so that a constant payment each period covers both interest and a portion of principal, fully recovering the initial investment over time. In engineering economy, this pattern is captured by the capital recovery annuity and corresponding factor A/P (capital-recovery factor).


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Initial principal (present worth) P is to be recovered over n periods.
  • Interest rate i per period applies.
  • Equal periodic payment A retiring both interest and principal.


Concept / Approach:
The capital recovery factor converts a present amount P into a uniform series A: A = P * (A/P, i, n). Each payment A consists of interest on the outstanding balance plus principal reduction. By the final period, the principal is fully repaid. This structure underlies loan amortization and lease-equivalent calculations.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Express A = P * [i(1 + i)^n / ((1 + i)^n − 1)].Construct an amortization schedule to show interest and principal components each period.Verify that the remaining balance declines to zero after n payments.


Verification / Alternative check:

Check that present worth of all A payments discounted at i equals P, confirming full capital recovery.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Present worth annuity: refers to discounting an annuity to time zero, not debt service recovery per se.Sinking fund annuity: accumulates to a future sum, typically separate from debt payments.Compound annuity/deferred annuity: different timing/structure; not the standard debt service construct.


Common Pitfalls:

Confusing sinking funds (future buildup) with capital recovery (level payments that retire P and interest).Ignoring fees or balloon payments that alter equal-payment assumptions.


Final Answer:

Capital recovery annuity

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