Clair Seaton tells you that the accountants where she works are real hair splitters. For example, they make a big issue over the difference between a cost and an expense. She says the two terms mean the same thing to her.

Required:

a. Explain to Clair the difference between a cost and an expense from an accountant’s perspective.

b. Explain whether each of the following events produces an asset or an expense.
(1) Purchased a building for cash.
(2) Paid cash to purchase supplies.
(3) Used supplies on hand to produce revenue.
(4) Paid cash in advance for insurance.
(5) Recognized accrued salaries.