Final answer:
To calculate the annual depreciation expense using the straight-line method, subtract the residual value from the cost, then divide by the asset's useful life. For the Weller Company truck, it amounts to $8,250 per year for each of the first two years.
Step-by-step explanation:
To compute the annual depreciation expense for the first and second years using the straight-line method, you need to subtract the residual value from the cost of the asset and then divide by the useful life of the asset. The cost of the Weller Company's delivery truck is $42,000, and its residual value at the end of its 4-year useful life is $9,000. So, the depreciable amount is cost minus residual value, which is $42,000 - $9,000 = $33,000. This amount is then divided by the useful life of the truck, which is 4 years.
The annual depreciation expense calculation would be: $33,000 / 4 = $8,250 per year. Therefore, the annual depreciation expense for both the first and the second year is $8,250.