A characteristic of products that are mass-produced in a continuous fashion is that
a.the products are identical or very similar in nature.
b.they are grouped in batches.
c.they are produced at the time an order is received.
d.their costs are accumulated on job cost sheets.
The correct answer and explanation is :
Correct Answer:
a. The products are identical or very similar in nature.
Explanation:
Mass production in a continuous fashion refers to a manufacturing process where products are produced in large volumes without interruption. This type of production is commonly used in industries such as automobile manufacturing, food processing, petroleum refining, and consumer electronics. The defining characteristic of this method is that the products are identical or very similar in nature, making option a the correct answer.
In continuous production, the manufacturing process runs 24/7 with minimal variation in the product being made. This approach allows companies to achieve economies of scale, reducing costs per unit and increasing efficiency. Since the same product is made repeatedly, there is little need for frequent changes in machinery, raw materials, or labor processes.
Why Other Options Are Incorrect:
- Option b (“They are grouped in batches.”)
This applies more to batch production, where products are manufactured in specific quantities before moving on to a different batch. Continuous production does not follow a batch system; instead, it operates uninterrupted. - Option c (“They are produced at the time an order is received.”)
This describes a just-in-time (JIT) or make-to-order system, which is more common in customized manufacturing. Continuous production, in contrast, produces goods in anticipation of demand, not in response to individual orders. - Option d (“Their costs are accumulated on job cost sheets.”)
Job costing applies to customized or unique products (e.g., custom furniture, construction projects), where costs are tracked for each job separately. Continuous production uses process costing, where costs are averaged over all units.
Thus, mass production in a continuous fashion is best characterized by the fact that the products are identical or very similar in nature (option a).