In what way is depreciation dealt with in adjusting entries?

Depreciation is a method used in accounting to allocate the cost of a tangible asset over its useful life, and this aligns perfectly with how it is handled in adjusting entries. The purpose of recognizing depreciation in adjusting entries is to match the expense of using the asset to the revenues it helps generate during a specific accounting period. This matching principle is fundamental in accrual accounting, as it ensures that expenses are recorded in the period in which the associated revenues are earned.

By allocating depreciation as an expense over the asset's useful life, businesses can reflect a more accurate financial position and performance over time. This approach also provides a systematic way of reducing the book value of the asset on the balance sheet, thereby presenting a clear picture of asset utilization and ensuring that profits reported are not overstated due to the omission of the ongoing wear and tear of assets.

In terms of the other choices, recognizing it as income would inaccurately inflate net income; treating it as an adjustment to bank transactions does not accurately represent its nature; and recording it only when an asset is sold neglects the necessity of reflecting the expense throughout the asset's useful life.