When a Negative Externality Exists, the Private Market Produces

question 255

Multiple Choice

When a negative externality exists, the private market produces

• A)more than the economically efficient output level.
• B)less than the economically efficient output level.
• C)products at a low opportunity cost.
• D)products at a high opportunity cost.

---

Definitions:

Unit Product Cost

The total cost associated with producing a single unit of a product, including materials, labor, and overhead.

Common Fixed Expenses

Ongoing expenses that do not vary with production volume or business activity, shared across departments or products.

Business Segments

Distinct parts of a company that can be separately analyzed for profitability and operational efficiency.

Variable Costing

A pricing approach that incorporates only variable production expenses—such as direct materials, direct labor, and variable manufacturing overhead—into the costs of products.