Final answer:
The matching principle relates to matching expenses with revenues, the conservatism principle emphasizes caution in financial reporting, the revenue recognition principle states when revenue should be recognized, and the cost principle records assets at their original cost.
Step-by-step explanation:
Among the accounting principles mentioned, the matching principle relates to the concept of matching expenses with revenues in the same accounting period. This principle states that expenses should be recognized in the same period as the related revenues. For example, if a company sells a product and recognizes the revenue in one month, the associated expenses, such as the cost of manufacturing or delivering the product, should also be recognized in the same month.
The conservatism principle relates to being cautious and conservative in financial reporting. It suggests that when there are uncertainties or risks involved, a company should record potential losses immediately but only record potential gains when they are certain. For example, if a company suspects that a customer might default on a payment, it should record the potential loss in the current period but not record potential gains until they are realized.
The revenue recognition principle states that revenue should be recognized when it is earned and realized or realizable. This means that revenue should be recognized when the product or service has been provided to the customer and the company can reasonably expect to be paid for it. For example, a company that sells a product on credit should recognize the revenue when the product is delivered to the customer, even if the customer has not yet paid.
The cost principle, also known as the historical cost principle, states that assets should be recorded at their original cost. This principle allows for the objective and verifiable measurement of assets. For example, if a company purchases a building, it should record the cost of the building at the price it paid for it, rather than at its current market value.