In: Economics
Consider a monopolist facing two groups of consumers with demand curves given by q1= 5−p and q2= 5−2p. The monopolist does not have any cost of production.
(a) Find the profit-maximizing prices and quantities under third-degree price discrimination (group-specific pricing)
(b) If the monopolist cannot price discriminate (must charge everyone the same price), what is the demand curve facing the firm? (Hint: remember to sum demand curves horizontally)
(c) Find the profit-maximizing price and quantity for the monopolist who does not price discriminate
(d) Compare profits and consumer surplus under third-degree price discrimination to profits and consumer surplus under a single price.