. . . What is the difference between variable and absorption cost per unit? Why might a company use absorption costing instead of variable costing? Why might it use variable costing instead of absorption costing? Which produces the correct product cost, absorption or variable costing? Why might net operating income not be the same for absorption and variable costing? Explain what causes the difference. In what circumstances would net operating income for both methods be the same? Give an example of a business segment. Explain and give an example of common fixed costs and traceable fixed costs. Why aren't common costs included in the income statement for business segments, and only reported for the company as a . . whole