In engineering economy terminology, which label best aligns with a Present Worth Annuity (PWA)—that is, the present value of a uniform series of future receipts or payments?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Income annuities (present worth of uniform receipts)

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
A Present Worth Annuity (PWA) represents the present value of a uniform series of equal payments that occur each period. Accurately naming the concept ensures the correct use of discount factors (P/A, i, n) in project appraisal, loan valuation, and benefit–cost analysis.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • PWA focuses on present value at time zero.
  • The series is uniform (equal A each period) and occurs for n periods at interest rate i.
  • The context is generic engineering economy, not insurance product jargon.


Concept / Approach:
When we discount a uniform series to time zero, we apply the present-worth-of-an-annuity factor P/A. In many textbooks, the cash flows are interpreted as an income stream (receipts), hence the association with “income annuities.” Terms like “premium annuities” come from insurance pricing and can be ambiguous in engineering economy. “Future annuities” refers to computing the future worth (F/A) rather than present worth, so it does not match PWA precisely.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Define PWA: Present worth PW = A * (P/A, i, n).Relate the term to typical use: valuing an income stream in today’s money.Select the label that best fits this use: income annuities.


Verification / Alternative check:

Confirm by computing both PW and FW for a sample annuity; only the PW calculation matches PWA.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Premium annuities: not a standard engineering economy label for PWA.Future annuities: refers to future worth, not present worth.All of these: overly broad; only the income interpretation aligns directly.


Common Pitfalls:

Confusing present-worth and future-worth factors; misreading timing (ordinary vs. annuity due).


Final Answer:

Income annuities (present worth of uniform receipts)

More Questions from Engineering Economy

Discussion & Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!
Join Discussion