Final answer:
The difference in account balances for Property and Equipment in The Diner's balance sheets is likely due to property or equipment purchases, representing the company's investment activities geared toward future profitability. Thus, the option 2 is the correct answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
If the balance sheets of The Diner for 2009 show an increase in the Property and Equipment asset account without any disposals, the difference in account balances is likely due to property or equipment purchases. Since the business has not sold any property or equipment and there is no mention of the sale of investments affecting the assets, the most logical explanation for the increase is that the company acquired additional assets in the form of property or equipment. This action is a reflection of the company's investment activities and anticipation that such investments will lead to future profitability. Purchases of property or equipment are not financing activities (since those would affect liabilities and equity), nor are they daily operations, although they can be the result of profits earned and reinvested into the business.