In: Economics
Answer the question on the basis of the following total utility data for apples and oranges. Assume that the prices of apples are $3 and oranges are $4, and that the consumer's income is $18.
Apples | Total Utility | Oranges | Total Utility |
1 | 9 | 1 | 16 |
2 | 15 | 2 | 28 |
3 | 18 | 3 | 36 |
4 | 20 | 4 | 40 |
5 | 21 | 5 | 42 |
If Wanda, the consumer, is currently purchasing 1 apple and 3 oranges, is she maximizing her utility? Why or why not? If she is not, what combination should she purchase to maximize her utility, and explain why?