Which of the following are transactions intended for government use but were not, or did not appear to be, for a purpose permitted by law?

Improper transactions refer specifically to those purchases made with government funds that do not align with the permissible uses outlined by law. This encompasses instances where the intent behind the transaction either deviates from its designated purpose or does not meet the legal requirements for government expenditures.

By defining this category, the response inherently captures the essence of compliance and accountability in government procurement processes. Understanding what constitutes an improper transaction is crucial for maintaining the integrity of government purchasing systems and ensuring that public funds are utilized correctly.

In contrast, authorized purchases, valid expenditures, and permitted activities all represent transactions that are recognized as compliant with legal and regulatory frameworks. These categories focus on transactions that have been vetted and are intended for legitimate government use, which contrasts with the concept of improper transactions.