Financial statements overview: A balance sheet for an industrial enterprise primarily shows the __________.

Introduction / Context:
The balance sheet is one of the core financial statements used by chemical engineers and managers to assess plant performance and solvency. Unlike the income statement (over a period), the balance sheet is a snapshot at a specific date, detailing assets, liabilities, and owners’ equity.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Standard double-entry accounting.
• Assets are classified as current and non-current (fixed), liabilities as current and long-term.
• Equity reflects residual claims after liabilities.

Concept / Approach:
The balance sheet answers “What do we own, and how is it financed?” at a point in time. It shows the financial condition on that date. It is not limited to current or fixed assets; it includes all assets, all liabilities, and equity, and thus cannot be summarized as only a subset of accounts.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Compare to the income statement (periodic flow) and cash flow statement (sources/uses of cash). Only the balance sheet is a point-in-time statement.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing working capital schedules (current assets and liabilities) with the full balance sheet.

Final Answer:
financial condition at any given time