For an Ecological Interaction to Be a Mutualism, the Net

question 9

Multiple Choice

For an ecological interaction to be a mutualism, the net benefits must

• A) exceed the net costs for both partners.
• B) exceed the net costs for one, but not necessarily the other, partner.
• C) be less than the net costs for both partners.
• D) be less than the net costs for one, but not necessarily the other, partner.

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Definitions:

Utility Function

A utility function is a mathematical representation of a consumer’s preferences, ranking different bundles of goods according to levels of satisfaction.

Indifference Curve

A graph showing different bundles of goods between which a consumer is indifferent, meaning they would derive the same level of satisfaction from any combination.

Bliss Point

The optimal quantity of consumption where any further increase or decrease would lead to a lower level of satisfaction for the consumer.

Indifference Curves

Graphical representations in microeconomics to illustrate different combinations of goods between which a consumer is indifferent.