In interest calculations, the method that uses a 365-day year for day-count when computing simple interest is called what?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: exact simple interest

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Engineering economics distinguishes between different day-count conventions for simple interest. The choice affects the computed interest for partial-year periods and must match contract terms. Two common conventions are the 360-day (banker’s) year and the 365-day (calendar) year.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Simple interest I = P * i * (days / base_year_days).
  • Base year days may be 360 or 365 depending on convention.
  • Question asks for the term corresponding to the 365-day basis.


Concept / Approach:

Exact simple interest uses the actual number of days over 365 (or 366 in leap years by some contracts). Ordinary simple interest uses a 360-day year. Correct identification ensures consistent valuation of short-term notes and claims.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Identify 365-day denominator → exact simple interest.Recognize 360-day denominator → ordinary simple interest (not selected).Choose the correct term accordingly.


Verification / Alternative check:

Finance references and contract templates state these conventions explicitly; calculators and spreadsheets offer exact/ordinary settings for day-count.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • 'interest': Non-specific.
  • Ordinary simple interest: 360-day year, not 365.
  • Compound exact interest: Not a standard simple-interest term.


Common Pitfalls:

  • Mismatched day-count between lender and borrower causing reconciliation issues.


Final Answer:

exact simple interest

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