Final answer:
Using the straight-line depreciation method, the depreciation for year 2 is the same as for year 1, which is $7,400. This assumes a constant annual decrease in value over the asset's useful life.
Step-by-step explanation:
To calculate the depreciation for year 2 for the given asset, we will use the straight-line depreciation method, which assumes the asset will lose the same amount of value each year. Given that the historical cost is $40,000, the useful life is 5 years, and the salvage value is $3,000, the yearly depreciation can be calculated as:
Total Depreciation = Historical Cost - Salvage Value = $40,000 - $3,000 = $37,000
Annual Depreciation = Total Depreciation / Useful Life = $37,000 / 5 years = $7,400 per year
Since the straight-line method results in the same amount of depreciation each year, the depreciation for year 2 is the same as for year 1, which is $7,400. Therefore, the correct answer is option (b) $7,400.