Suppose That Pasta Is Produced Under Conditions of Perfect Competition

question 83

Multiple Choice

Suppose that pasta is produced under conditions of perfect competition and that the constant-cost industry is initially in long-run equilibrium. Now suppose there is an increase in the price of wheat, which is a key ingredient in producing pasta. Further assume that the price elasticity of demand for pasta is -1.8. In the short run, we would expect to see:

• A) most firms in the industry earning positive economic profits.
• B) most firms in the industry earning zero economic profits.
• C) most firms in the industry earning negative economic profits.
• D) not enough information is given to answer the question.

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Definitions:

Budgeted Overhead

The estimated cost of all indirect production expenses for a specific period as part of the budgeting process.

Standard Hours Allowed

The amount of time that should be spent to produce a certain amount of goods or services, according to predetermined standards.

Overhead Volume Variance

A measure used in cost accounting to determine the difference between the allocated overhead costs and the actual overhead costs incurred.

Fixed Overhead Rate

A predetermined rate used to assign fixed overhead costs to cost objects, based on a specific activity level or base.