In: Economics
The demand curve for a good is given by the linear function Qd = 60 - P, where P is the price buyers pay for the good and Qd is the quantity of the good demanded. The supply curve for the good is given by the linear function Qs = 2P, where P is the price sellers receive for the good and Qs is the quantity of the good supplied. If a tax of $12 per unit is levied on buyers of the good, what will happen to the market price of the good in competitive equilibrium?
a. The market price will rise by $8.
b. The market price will rise by $4.
c. The market price will fall by $12.
d. The market price will fall by $8.
e. The market price will fall by $4.
Qd = 60 - P
Qs = 2P
Equilibrium
60 -P = 2P
60 = 3P
P = 60/3
= 20
After tax:
60 -P = 2(P -12)
60 - P = 2P -24
84 = 3P
P = 84/3
= 28
Increase in price is equal to $ 8
Right Answer: (A)