Ratio analysis a. cannot be used to compare a company against other companies in the same industry because the necessary information is not available b. cannot be used to evaluate a company's performance c. cannot be used to evaluate a company's financial condition d. is used most effectively to compare a company against other companies in the same industry and to denote trends within the company

D. is used most effectively to compare a company against other companies in the same industry and to denote trends within the company

Explanation:

Ratio analysis is used to measure a company's performance and is best interpreted with data collected from other companies in the same industry faced by similar factors.

These companies also usually have similar accounting policies and as such, comparing a company's performance with companies in the same industry is used as an effective measure.

Considering the options, the right answer is D. is used most effectively to compare a company against other companies in the same industry and to denote trends within the company.

the u.s. census bureau produces data on the population and economy nationwide. it can you to analyze the kind of people living in your neighborhood. it does not show you the market of people willing to buy your product or an existing market for your product. that will require more market research. the census bureau only gives you an insight to the demographics in your area.