A merchandiser purchased inventory on account for $18,000. under the periodic inventory system, the journal entry to record the purchase would include ________.
a. a debit to accounts payable for $18,000 and a credit to purchases for $18,000
b. a debit to accounts payable for $18,000 and a credit to merchandise inventory for $18,000
c. a debit to merchandise inventory for $18,000 and a credit to accounts payable for $18,000
d. a debit to purchases for $18,000 and a credit to accounts payable for $18,000