A Production Function Exhibits Decreasing Returns to Scale If a Twofold

question 173

Essay

A production function exhibits decreasing returns to scale if a twofold (threefold, etc.) increase in all inputs increases output by less than twofold (less than threefold, etc.). For example, by doubling the use of capital and labor, the firm would less than double its output.
a. What would the average and marginal cost curves look like under decreasing returns to scale? Explain.
b. Give an example of a production function that exhibits decreasing returns to scale.

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Definitions:

Market Prices

The amount of money that a buyer is willing to pay and a seller is willing to accept for a good or service in a competitive marketplace.

Competitive Market

A market structure characterized by a large number of buyers and sellers, where no single entity has sufficient power to influence the market price substantially.

Value of Resources

The worth or utility of resources based on their ability to contribute to production or satisfy needs.

Competitive Market

A market structure characterized by a large number of sellers and buyers, where no single entity can influence the market price.