Question

Physical deterioration is considered curable whenever

A) it is caused by lack of maintenance.
B) it does not result in loss of economic utility.
C) it costs less to correct than the resulting value increase.
D) it can be repaired regardless of the cost.

Answer 1

Physical deterioration is considered curable when the repairs cost less than the value they add to the product. This concept opposes planned obsolescence, leading to a preference for durable, repairable items over disposable ones. Option a is correct.

Step-by-step explanation:

The student asked about when physical deterioration is considered curable. The correct answer is that physical deterioration is considered curable whenever it costs less to correct than the resulting value increase. This implies that the cost of repairs does not outweigh the functional and economic benefits received after the product is fixed.

This concept is highly relevant in the context of planned obsolescence, which is a business strategy where products are designed to have a limited lifespan to encourage consumers to purchase newer models.

In the scenario where repair becomes more economically viable than replacement, we move away from a disposable economy. Durable goods may become more popular, and items can be designed to facilitate upgrade or repair.

Thus, the economic utility of an item is retained or improved at a cost that makes sense relative to its increased longevity and performance. When considering environmental and economic impacts, repairing an item becomes significantly more favorable than disposing of it and acquiring a new one if the repair costs are justified and sustainable.