據說是愛因斯坦所創:
Rule of 72
The compound interest rule of 72 was discovered by Albert Einstein. Referring to compound interest, Albert Einstein is quoted as saying: "It is the greatest mathematical discovery of all time."
Albert Einstein (1879 - 1955) called the compound interest rule of 72 the 8th Wonder of the World - It can work for you, or against you. When you invest it works for you. When you borrow it works against you!
Full Article:
http://www.mortgages aver.org/albert-eins tein%27s-compound-in terest-rule-of-72.ht m
至於數學原理,可以參考這裡:
http://www.moneychim p.com/features/rule7 2_why.htm