Final answer:
A cost-benefit analysis is a process used to evaluate the potential costs and benefits of a decision, project, or policy. It involves comparing the costs associated with a particular action or option against the benefits that would result from it. Cost-benefit analysis is used in various fields to make informed decisions.
Step-by-step explanation:
A cost-benefit analysis is a process used to evaluate the potential costs and benefits of a decision, project, or policy. It involves comparing the costs associated with a particular action or option against the benefits that would result from it. The goal is to determine whether the benefits outweigh the costs and whether the action or option is worth pursuing.
For example, let's consider the decision to build a new community pool. In a cost-benefit analysis, the costs could include the construction and maintenance costs of the pool, while the benefits may include increased recreation opportunities, improved community health, and economic benefits from increased tourism. By comparing the costs and benefits, decision-makers can assess whether the pool project is a worthwhile investment.
Cost-benefit analysis is used in various fields, including economics, public policy, environmental science, and business. It provides a framework for making informed decisions by considering both quantitative and qualitative factors and weighing the potential outcomes.