Suppose That Cigarette Smokers Create a Negative Externality

question 6

Multiple Choice

Suppose that cigarette smokers create a negative externality. Further suppose that the government imposes a tax on cigarettes equal to the per-unit externality. What is the relationship between the after-tax equilibrium quantity and the socially optimal quantity of cigarettes?

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

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Definitions:

Subsidiary Ledger

A subsidiary ledger is a detailed list to support a general ledger account, such as accounts receivable or accounts payable, where individual transactions with entities or items can be tracked.

Supplemental Ledger

Supplemental ledger is an accounting ledger used for keeping detailed information that supports figures stated in the general ledger, providing additional details or breakdowns.

Primary Ledger

The main accounting record used by a business to keep track of all the financial transactions.

Accounts Receivable Subsidiary Ledger

A detailed record showing the individual transactions and balances for customers who owe the company money, supporting the summary balances shown in the general ledger.