Question

A firm sells a product in a purely competitive market. The marginal cost of the product at the current output of 200 units is $4.00. The average variable cost is $3.50. The market price of the product is $3.00. To maximize profits or minimize losses, the firm shouldA. Continue to produce 500 units
B. Produce less than 500 units
C. Produce more than 500 units
D. Shut down

Answer 1

Answer:

D. Should Shut Down

Explanation:

A perfect competition firm is at profit maximising equilibrium where : Marginal Revenue [Price] = Marginal Cost .

If MR > MC : Firm's additional production is profitable, it tends to increase production. If MR < MC : Firm's additional production is loss making, it tends to decrease production.

However, If firm's Price i.e MR < Average Variable Cost : The firm's per unit price is even unable to cover it's per unit average variable cost. This situation is referred to as 'Shut Down' point & firm should close down its production in the case.

Given : MR = P = 3 ; MC = 4 ; AVC = 3.5 . The firm's price P (3) is not only lesser by its Marginal Cost MC (4), to decrease production ; but also lesser than its Average Variable Cost AVC (3.5) . So, the firm should shut down.