Although Sloan Company had good earnings reports in 20X5 and 20X6, it had a negative retained earnings balance on December 31, 20X6. Jacobs Corporation purchased 80 percent of Sloan's common stock on January 1, 20X7.

Required 

a. Explain how Sloan's negative retained earnings balance is reflected in the consolidated balance sheet immediately following the acquisition.

b. Explain how the existence of negative retained earnings changes the consolidation workpaper entries. 

c. Can goodwill be recorded if Jacobs pays more than book value for Sloan's shares? Explain.