decreasing returns to scale

Exploring Economics
8th Edition
ISBN:9781544336329
Author:Robert L. Sexton
Publisher:Robert L. Sexton
Chapter11: The Firm: Production And Costs
Section: Chapter Questions
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4.8 Michelle's business produces ceramic cups using labor, clay,
and a kiln. She uses labor and clay in a fixed proportion, but has
only one kiln. She can manufacture 25 cups a day with one worker
and 35 with two workers.
a. Does this information illustrate decreasing returns to scale
or a diminishing marginal product of labor? What is the
likely explanation for why output doesn't increase
proportionately with the number of workers?
b. Michelle believes that if she could use two kilns and two
workers, she could produce 55 cups a day. If so, what can
you say about returns to scale?
11
1 1
Transcribed Image Text:4.8 Michelle's business produces ceramic cups using labor, clay, and a kiln. She uses labor and clay in a fixed proportion, but has only one kiln. She can manufacture 25 cups a day with one worker and 35 with two workers. a. Does this information illustrate decreasing returns to scale or a diminishing marginal product of labor? What is the likely explanation for why output doesn't increase proportionately with the number of workers? b. Michelle believes that if she could use two kilns and two workers, she could produce 55 cups a day. If so, what can you say about returns to scale? 11 1 1
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