In: Economics
Zero profit means P = ATC. For a price taker firm the price is equal to ATC athe minimum point of ATC. So, ATC will be minimum when the first order derivative of ATC function is equal to zero. Thus,
ATC = 972/q + 5 + 3q = 972q-1 + 5 + 3q
The first order derivative of ATC = -972q-1-1 + 0 + 3
= -972q-2 + 3
= -(972/q2) + 3
So, -(972/q2) + 3 = 0
972/q2 = 3
q2 = 972 / 3 = 324
q = = 18
So, ATC = 972/q + 5 + 3q = 972/18 + 5 + 3(18) = 54 + 5 + 54 = $113
Thus, the price at which the firm would earn zero profits is $113.