University Researchers Create a Positive Externality Because What They Discover

question 162

Multiple Choice

University researchers create a positive externality because what they discover in their research labs can easily be learned by others who haven't contributed to the research costs. If there are no subsidies, what is the relationship between the equilibrium quantity of university research and the optimal quantity of university research produced?

• A)They are equal.
• B)The equilibrium quantity is greater than the socially optimal quantity.
• C)The equilibrium quantity is less than the socially optimal quantity.
• D)There is not enough information to answer the question.