The cost of merchandise sold during the year was $50,000. Merchandise inventories were $12,500 and $10,500 at the beginning and end of the year, respectively. Accounts payable were $6,000 and $5,000 at the beginning and end of the year, respectively. Using the direct method of reporting cash flows from operating activities, cash payments for merchandise total _________.
A. $49,000
B. $47,000
C. $51,000