The correct answer is: C. Depreciation

Depreciation is the reduction in the value of an asset over time due to wear and tear, obsolescence, and other factors. It is a non-cash expense that is recorded on the income statement to account for the decline in the value of an asset.

Depletion is the reduction in the value of a natural resource over time due to extraction. It is a non-cash expense that is recorded on the income statement to account for the decline in the value of a natural resource.

Inflation is a general increase in prices and fall in the purchasing value of money. It is a measure of the rate at which prices for goods and services are rising in an economy.

Deflation is a general decrease in prices and rise in the purchasing value of money. It is a measure of the rate at which prices for goods and services are falling in an economy.