In January, 2006, Findley Corporation purchased a patent for a new consumer product for $720,000. At the time of purchase, the patent was valid for fifteen years. Due to the competitive nature of the product, however, the patent was estimated to have a useful life of only ten years. During 2011 the product was permanently removed from the market under governmental order because of a potential health hazard present in the product. What amount should Findley charge to expense during 2011, assuming amortization is recorded at the end of each year?
a. $480,000.
b. $360,000.
c. $72,000.
d. $48,000.