In: Economics
Suppose the equation for the demand curve in a market is PD=100-1.5QD, where QDis the quantity demanded and P is the price. Also, suppose the equation for the supply curve in the same market is PS=0.5QS , where Qs is the quantity supplied. Suppose there is an external cost of $12 associated with the production of each unit of the good.
What are the socially optimal quantity and price?
P=$37; Q=50
P=$25; Q=50
P=$22; Q=44
P=$34; Q=44
Suppose that to internalize the externality, a tax of $12 is imposed by government. Then total surplus which is
$2500 before tax will decrease to $1936 after tax.
$2500 before tax will decrease to $2200 after tax.
$1900 before tax will increase to $1936 after tax.
$1900 before tax will increase to $2200 after tax.
Given,
Supply equation, P = 0.5Qs
At equilibrium Qd is equal to Qs
100 - 1.5Q = 0.5Q
2Q = 100
Q = 50 units
P =$ 25 per unit
Here an external cost of $ 12 occurs. Thus the supply curve will change. The price received by sellers will be $ 12 less than the price paid by buyers.
0.5Q = 88 - 1.5Q
2Q = 88
Qt = 44 units
Pt = $ 34 / unit (= 100 - 1.5×44)
Option D. P = $ 34, Q = 44
Before tax
Consumer surplus =(1/2)×(100-25)×50 = $ 1875
Producer surplus = (1/2)×25×50 = $ 625
Total surplus = 1875 + 625 = $ 2500
After tax
Tax revenue = 12 × 44= $ 528
DWL = (1/2)×12 × 6 = $ 36
CS =(1/2)×(100 -34) ×44 = $ 1,452
PS = (1/2)×22×44 = $ 484
TS = 1452 + 484 = $ 1,936
Option A.