Final answer:
Assets purchased in the same year must use the same depreciation method, while similar assets purchased in different years can be depreciated using different methods. The correct choice is b. Same; Different.
Step-by-step explanation:
When dealing with the depreciation of assets, the rules can vary depending on the tax regulations of the country. In general, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in the United States allows for some flexibility in the choice of depreciation methods.
For the question at hand, the correct answer is: (1) same depreciation method for similar assets purchased in the same year, and (2) different depreciation methods for similar assets purchased in different years. Therefore, the answer is b. Same; Different.
By using the same depreciation method for similar assets acquired in the same period, consistency is maintained, which is crucial for accurate financial reporting and comparison. However, if similar assets are purchased in different years, companies may choose to use different methods if it better reflects the usage or if tax laws have changed.