Merton Manufacturing Company has an opportunity to purchase some technologically advanced equipment that will reduce the companys cash outflow for operating expenses by $1,271,000 per year. The cost of the equipment is $8,156,843.32. Merton expects it to have a 10-year useful life and a zero salvage value. The company has established an investment opportunity hurdle rate of 15 percent and uses the straight-line method for depreciation. (PV of $1 and PVA of $1) (Use appropriate factor(s) from the tables provided.)

Required:
a.	Calculate the internal rate of return of the investment opportunity.

b.	Indicate whether the investment opportunity should be accepted.