Inferring Transactions from Financial Statements

Lowe$$s is the second$-$largest home improvement retailer in the world, with $2,002$ stores. During a recent fiscal year, Lowe$$s purchased merchandise inventory at a cost of $$49,569($$ millions$).$ Assume all purchases were made on account and accounts payable is only used for inventory purchases. The following T$-$accounts reflect relevant balance sheet information.

Merchandise Inventory

Opening balance $8,911$

Closing balance $9,458$

Accounts Payable

$5,124$ Opening balance

$5,633$ Closing balance

a$.$ What amount did Lowe$$s pay in cash to its suppliers during the fiscal year? Explain