5 Mr . Coltrane operates a norist Some of his monthly operating expenses are shown below. Monthly Expenses Building Rent. \( \qquad \) \( \$ 1,750 \) Utilities.. \( \qquad \) \( \$ 425 \) to \( \$ 495 \) Labor costs. \( \qquad \) \( \$ 850 \) to \( \$ 1,350 \) Vehicle costs. \( \qquad \) \( \$ 415 \) to \( \$ 625 \) Which expense appears to be a fixed expense? A Building rent C Labor costs B Utilities D Vehicle costs

**Step 1: Identify Fixed and Variable Expenses** A fixed expense remains constant each month regardless of business activity, while a variable expense changes depending on usage or production. **Step 2: Analyze the Given Expenses** - **Building Rent:** \( \$1750 \) every month (constant). - **Utilities:** Varies between \( \$425 \) to \( \$495 \). - **Labor costs:** Varies between \( \$850 \) to \( \$1350 \). - **Vehicle costs:** Varies between \( \$415 \) to \( \$625 \). **Step 3: Determine the Fixed Expense** Since building rent is the only expense that does not vary month to month, it qualifies as the fixed expense. **Answer:** \( \text{A. Building rent} \)