Final answer:
The depreciable cost of a machine purchased by Sandhill Co. for $158,000 with an expected salvage value of $27,000 is $131,000.
Step-by-step explanation:
The depreciable cost of a machine is a crucial component in calculating depreciation, specifically using the straight-line method. In the case of Sandhill Co.'s machine, valued at $158,000 with an expected salvage value of $27,000, the depreciable cost is determined by subtracting the salvage value from the total cost.
Thus, $158,000 - $27,000 equals $131,000, representing the amount to be depreciated evenly over the machine's useful life. The straight-line method allocates this depreciable cost uniformly, ensuring a consistent annual depreciation expense of $131,000 until the machine's anticipated end of life. This systematic approach simplifies financial planning and facilitates accurate asset valuation over time.