The answer is the fourth one (d): specific identification.
Explanation for each option:
- Weighted Average Cost: This method averages out the cost of all inventory items, making it more suitable for businesses with large volumes of similar items. It is not ideal for unique, high-cost items because it does not track individual item costs.
b. FIFO (First-In, First-Out): This method assumes that the oldest inventory items are sold first. While it can be used for various types of inventory, it is not specifically tailored for unique, high-cost items where tracking individual costs is important.
c. LIFO (Last-In, First-Out): This method assumes that the most recently acquired inventory items are sold first. Like FIFO, it is not specifically designed for unique, high-cost items and does not track individual item costs.
d. Specific Identification: This method tracks the actual cost of each specific item in inventory, making it ideal for businesses with a small number of unique, high-cost items. It allows for precise matching of costs with revenues for each item sold.
Summary: The specific identification method is most appropriate for businesses with a small number of unique, high-cost items because it allows for accurate tracking of individual item costs.