Final answer:
Between 1900 and 1925, the cost of cars decreased while the number of cars sold increased, thanks to Ford's mass production and assembly line innovations. These changes made cars more affordable and transformed society by making car ownership widespread.
Step-by-step explanation:
When comparing the relationship between the cost of cars and the number of cars sold in the U.S. in the years 1900 and 1925, a clear trend can be observed: as the cost of cars decreased, the number of cars sold increased. In 1900, automobiles were luxury items affordable only by the wealthy, but by 1925, thanks to Ford's innovative approach to manufacturing, cars became more accessible to the general public.
Ford's implementation of the assembly line, which started in 1913, allowed for mass production and led to significant decreases in car prices, from $850 in 1908 to $300 in 1924. This efficiency not only resulted in a drastic price reduction but also made car ownership feasible for a broad segment of society, evidenced by the sale of one million automobiles annually by 1920.
Ford's innovative approach to manufacturing proved to be extremely effective, as it democratized the ownership of automobiles and shaped the automotive industry forever. The mass production techniques developed by Ford became a cornerstone of manufacturing beyond the automotive industry, signifying a major shift in industrial production. This historical example illustrates how automation and economies of scale can transform an industry and influence societal norms and economic conditions.