Final answer:
Appraisal costs refer to the expenses related to inspection, testing, and activities aimed at detecting defective products, which are key to ensuring quality control and maintaining brand integrity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The definition of appraisal costs in the context of quality is indeed option A) "The cost of inspection, testing, and other activities intended to uncover defective products or services." Appraisal costs are expenses incurred during the quality control process to assess and ensure that products or services meet specified quality standards.
These costs involve activities such as inspection, testing, and auditing, aiming to identify and address defects before products reach customers. Investing in appraisal costs is a proactive strategy to prevent the distribution of defective items, which could result in higher expenses related to returns, repairs, and potential damage to the brand's reputation. Effectively managing appraisal costs is integral to maintaining product quality, customer satisfaction, and overall business success in the long run.