Answer and Explanation:
a. The journal entries are shown below:
On April 7
Merchandise inventory $198,800
To Account payable $198,800
(being the inventory purchase on account)
On April 13
Account payable $19,800
To Merchandise inventory $19,800
(Being returned inventory is recorded)
On April 15
Account payable ($198,800 - $19,800) $179,000
To Cash (98% of $179,000) $175,420
To Merchandise inventory $3,580
(being the amount paid is recorded)
b. The inventory cost should be $175,420