Which formula represents the Times Interest Earned Ratio?

The Times Interest Earned Ratio (TIE) is a financial metric used to assess a company's ability to meet its debt obligations, specifically its interest expenses. It is calculated by dividing the profit before interest and taxes (often referred to as operating income or earnings before interest and taxes, EBIT) by the interest expense.

This formula is significant as it provides insight into the financial health of a company, indicating how many times a business can cover its interest obligations with its earnings. A higher ratio suggests that the company is more capable of paying interest on its outstanding debt, which is viewed favorably by investors and creditors.

The other formulas presented do not serve to reflect the relationship between earnings and interest expenses. For instance, sales in relation to total assets or profit before income taxes in relation to sales do not directly assess interest coverage. Similarly, the formula involving total liabilities and equity does not pertain to interest coverage but rather to the company's capital structure and financial leverage. Thus, option C is clearly the accurate representation of the Times Interest Earned Ratio, focusing directly on operating performance in relation to interest obligations.