Question: Although we only discussed profit maximization as a goal of firms in this chapter, many of the tools developed can be used to illustrate other

Although we only discussed profit maximization as a goal of firms in this chapter, many of the tools developed can be used to illustrate other goals as well. To do so, assume a firm faces a downward-sloping, linear demand curve and has constant average and marginal costs.

a. Suppose this firm wished to maximize the total number of units it sells, subject to the constraint that it cannot operate at a loss. How many units should it produce, and what price should it charge?

b. Suppose this firm wished to maximize the total revenue it collects. How many units should it produce, and what should it charge?

c. Suppose this firm wished to maximize the number of units it sells subject to the constraint that it must earn a profit of 1 percent on its sales. How many units should it produce, and what price should it charge?

d. Suppose this firm wished to maximize its profits per unit. How much should it produce, and what should it charge?

e. Compare the solutions to parts a–d to the output that would be chosen by a profit-maximizing firm. Explain why the results of these goals differ from profit maximization in each case.


Step by Step Solution

3.54 Rating (182 Votes )

There are 3 Steps involved in it

1 Expert Approved Answer
Step: 1 Unlock

a Let AC MC c and suppose demand is given by Q a bP The firm shoul... View full answer

blur-text-image
Question Has Been Solved by an Expert!

Get step-by-step solutions from verified subject matter experts

Step: 2 Unlock
Step: 3 Unlock

Document Format (1 attachment)

Word file Icon

228-B-E-M-E (1098).docx

120 KBs Word File

Students Have Also Explored These Related Economics Questions!