The total cost of producing one unit of output is $200; two units cost $300, three units $450, and four units $800. Fixed cost is $50. Draw the associated total cost, average cost, and marginal cost curves, placing total cost on one graph and marginal and average cost on a second graph.

What will be an ideal response?


Total cost will rise slowly at first and then more quickly after Q = 2 (Figure 8-6). Average cost is U-shaped, with a flat portion in the U between Q = 2 and 3. Marginal cost is U- (or J) shaped, reaching a minimum of $100 for the second unit. This point should be plotted at Q = 1.5. MC rises to $150, plotted at Q = 2.5, where it intersects AC. MC rises quickly to $350 at Q = 3.5.

Figure 8-6

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Economics

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