Your boss would like you to estimate the fixed and variable components of a particular cost. Actual data for this cost over four recent periods appear below. Activity Cost Period 1 31 $ 385 Period 2 30 $ 374 Period 3 27 $ 356 Period 4 32 $ 400 Using the least-squares regression method, what is the cost formula for this cost?

The business cycle is the periodic but irregular up-and-down movement in economic activity, measured by fluctuations in real gross domestic product (gdp) and other macroeconomic variables. a business cycle is typically characterized by four phases—recession, recovery, growth, and decline—that repeat themselves over time. economists note, however, that complete business cycles vary in length. the duration of business cycles can be anywhere from about two to twelve years, with most cycles averaging six years in length. some business analysts use the business cycle model and terminology to study and explain fluctuations in business inventory and other individual elements of corporate operations. but the term "business cycle" is still primarily associated with larger (industry-wide, regional, national, or even international) business trends.