(Solved): 1-b. Using the least-squares regression method, estimate the variable utilities cost per ton mine ...

1-b. Using the least-squares regression method, estimate the variable utilities cost per ton mined and the total fixed utilities cost per quarter. Express these estimates in the form $Y=a+bX$. Note: Round the Variable cost per unit to 2 decimal places and Fixed Cost to the nearest whole dollar amount. Required information The Hard Rock Mining Company is developing cost formulas for management planning and decision-making purposes. The company's cost analyst has concluded that utilities cost is a mixed cost, and he is attempting to find a base that correlates with the cost. The controller has suggested that tons mined might be a good base to use in developing a cost formula. The production superintendent disagrees; she thinks that direct labor-hours would be a better base. The cost analyst has decided to try both bases and has assembled the following information: 2-b. Using the least-squares regression method, estimate the variable utilities cost per direct labor-hour and the total fixed utilities cost per quarter. Express these estimates in the form $Y=a+bX$. Note: Round the Variable cost to 2 decimal places and Fixed Cost to the nearest whole dollar amount.