In the United States, the top 5 percent of the income distribution earns a. about the same as the bottom quintile of the income distribution b. about half of all income c. more than the bottom 40 percent of the income distribution d. about thirteen times what the bottom quintile of the income distribution earns

To analyze the statements regarding income distribution in the United States, we can break down each option based on known economic data and trends. 1. **Option a**: "about the same as the bottom quintile of the income distribution" - This statement is generally false. The top 5 percent of earners typically earn significantly more than the bottom quintile. 2. **Option b**: "about half of all income" - This statement is also generally false. While the top earners do capture a large share of total income, it is not typically as high as half. 3. **Option c**: "more than the bottom 40 percent of the income distribution" - This statement is true. The top 5 percent of earners earn more than the combined income of the bottom 40 percent. 4. **Option d**: "about thirteen times what the bottom quintile of the income distribution earns" - This statement is approximately true based on various studies and reports that indicate the income of the top 5 percent can be around 10 to 15 times that of the bottom quintile. Based on this analysis, the most accurate statements are **c** and **d**. However, if we are to choose the best answer that reflects a common understanding of income inequality, **c** is the most straightforward and widely accepted conclusion. Thus, the answer is: **c. more than the bottom 40 percent of the income distribution**.