What differentiates accounts receivable from accounts payable?

The distinction between accounts receivable and accounts payable is primarily centered around the direction of owed money in a business context. Accounts receivable represent amounts that customers owe to a business for goods or services provided on credit. This is considered an asset for the business, as it indicates potential future cash inflows when those receivables are collected.

On the other hand, accounts payable reflect obligations the business has incurred, representing money that the business owes to its suppliers or creditors. This is recognized as a liability, indicating that the business is required to make future cash outflows to settle these debts.

Thus, the correct answer encapsulates the fundamental financial relationship: accounts receivable signify funds expected to be received, while accounts payable signify funds that are expected to be paid out, marking them as oppositional elements in financial transactions within a business.