Answer:
The simple rate of return on the new machine is closest to 14.53%.
Step-by-step explanation:
Assuming a straight-line depreciation method, we have:
Annual deprecation = Cost of the new machine / Useful life = $130,000 / 10 = $13,000
Net annual benefit = Annual saving - Annual operating and maintenance cost - Annual deprecation = $46,000 - $16,000 - $13,000 = $17,000
Net investment = Cost of the new machine - Scrap value of the old machine = $130,000 - $13,000 = $117,000
Simple rate of return on the new machine = Net annual benefit / Net investment = $17,000 / $117,000 = 0.1453, or 14.53%
Therefore, the simple rate of return on the new machine is closest to 14.53%.