Activities such as purchasing raw materials are considered \( \square \) activities.

In the world of business, purchasing raw materials is known as a value-adding activity. This means that it directly contributes to the overall production process, enhancing the final product's value. Think of it as gathering the best ingredients for a recipe that ultimately delights your customers! However, it’s important to differentiate between value-adding and non-value-adding activities. Non-value-adding activities are tasks that don't contribute to the product’s worth, like excessive paperwork or waiting time. Focusing on removing inefficiencies can streamline your processes, saving time and resources while boosting quality!