Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Which of the following is a characteristic of a liability?
A
It is an asset that is used in the production of goods and services.
B
It represents a present obligation arising from past events.
C
It is always classified as a non-current asset.
D
It is an owner's residual interest in the assets of the entity.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the definition of a liability in financial accounting. A liability is a present obligation of the entity arising from past events, the settlement of which is expected to result in an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits.
Step 2: Analyze the options provided in the problem. The first option describes an asset used in production, which is not a liability. The third option refers to non-current assets, which are also not liabilities. The fourth option describes owner's equity, which is the residual interest in the assets of the entity after deducting liabilities.
Step 3: Focus on the second option, which states that a liability represents a present obligation arising from past events. This aligns with the definition of a liability in financial accounting.
Step 4: Confirm that liabilities are obligations that require the entity to transfer resources (such as cash or goods) to settle the obligation, typically due to past transactions or events.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct characteristic of a liability is that it represents a present obligation arising from past events, as this matches the fundamental definition of liabilities in financial accounting.