Cost flow assumptions—FIFO and LIFO using a periodic system Mower Blower Sales Co. started business on January 20, 2010. Products sold were snow blowers and lawn mowers. Each product sold for $350. Purchases during 2010 were as follows:

Blowers

Mowers

January 21

20 @ $200

February 3

40 @ 195

February 28

30 @ 190

March 13

20 @ 190

April 6

20 @ $210

May 22

40 @ 215

June 3

40 @ 220

June 20

60 @ 230

August 15

20 @ 215

September 20

20 @ 210

November 7

20 @ 200

The December 31, 2010, inventory included 10 blowers and 25 mowers. Assume the company uses a periodic inventory system.

Required:

a. What will be the difference between ending inventory valuation at December 31, 2010, and cost of goods sold for 2010, under the FIFO and LIFO cost flow assumptions?

b. If the cost of mowers had increased to $240 each by December 1, and if management had purchased 30 mowers at that time, which cost flow assumption was probably being used by the firm? Explain your answer.