Froogle Enterpises is evaluating an unusual investment project. What makes the project unusual is the stream of cash inflows and outflows shown in the following table.

Year Cash flow
0 $200,000
1 -920,000
2 1,582,000
3 -1,205,000
4 343,200
a. Why is it difficult to calculate the payback period for this project?
b. Calculate the investment's net present value at each of the following discount rates: 0%, 5%, 10%,20%, 25%, 30%, 35%.
c. What does your answer to part b tell you about this project's IRR?
d. Should Froogle invest in this project if it's cost of capital is 5%? What if the cost of capital is 15%?
e. In general, when faced with a project like this one, how should a firm decide whether to invest in the project or reject it?