Figure 11-8

question 86

Multiple Choice

Figure 11-8
Figure 11-8 shows the optimal input combinations for the production of a given quantity of cotton in the United States and in China.
-Refer to Figure 11-8.Which of the following could explain why the United States and China use different input combinations to produce a given quantity of cotton and yet,each country produces that quantity at the lowest possible cost?

• A) because the prices of inputs are not the same for the two countries: labor is relatively lower-priced and capital is relatively higher priced in the United States
• B) because the prices of inputs are not the same for the two countries: labor is relatively lower-priced and capital is relatively higher priced in China
• C) because the United States has more sophisticated technology and therefore is more efficient in cotton production
• D) because the marginal product per dollar spent on capital yields a higher return in the United States than in China

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Definitions:

Perfect Competition

A market structure where many firms sell identical products, no single firm can influence the market price, and all information is fully shared among buyers and sellers.

Number of Firms

The total count of businesses operating within a particular market or industry.

Perfect Price Discrimination

A pricing strategy where a seller charges each buyer the maximum price the buyer is willing to pay.

Consumer Surplus

The difference between what you pay for some good or service and what you would have been willing to pay.