Math Problem Statement
The following graph displays four supply curves (HH, II, JJ, and KK) that intersect at point A. 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 20 18 16 14 12 10 8 6 4 2 0 PRICE (Dollars per unit) QUANTITY (Units) A B C D E H H J J K K I I Using the graph, complete the table that follows by indicating whether each statement is true or false. Statement True False Curve KK is more elastic between points A and C than curve JJ is between points A and D.
Between points A and B, curve II is perfectly inelastic.
Between points A and D, curve JJ is inelastic.
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Solution
Let's break down the statements one by one using the graph's supply curves and their relative elasticity at different points:
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Statement: Curve KK is more elastic between points A and C than curve JJ is between points A and D.
- Elasticity measures how responsive the quantity supplied is to a change in price. A curve is more elastic if a small change in price results in a large change in quantity supplied, meaning the curve is flatter.
- If curve KK is flatter (more horizontal) between points A and C than curve JJ is between A and D, this would indicate that curve KK is more elastic.
- Based on general supply curve principles, if curve KK is flatter than curve JJ over the specified intervals, the statement is True.
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Statement: Between points A and B, curve II is perfectly inelastic.
- Perfect inelasticity means that the quantity supplied does not change at all with changes in price (i.e., the curve is vertical).
- If curve II is vertical between points A and B, it would be perfectly inelastic, meaning the statement is True. If not, then it would be False.
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Statement: Between points A and D, curve JJ is inelastic.
- A curve is inelastic if the percentage change in quantity supplied is smaller than the percentage change in price. This would mean that curve JJ is relatively steep between points A and D.
- If curve JJ is steeper than curve KK between A and D, the statement is True; otherwise, it is False.
To determine the correct responses, it would be necessary to visually examine the steepness and shape of each curve on the graph. If you have access to the graph or any additional details, that could clarify the answers more precisely.
Would you like any further details or explanations on elasticity or these specific points?
Here are 5 related questions to expand your understanding:
- What determines whether a supply curve is elastic or inelastic?
- How does perfect inelasticity differ from regular inelasticity?
- What factors can cause a supply curve to become more or less elastic?
- How does elasticity affect a firm's pricing strategy?
- Why do some supply curves become perfectly inelastic at certain points?
Tip: Elasticity is often affected by the availability of inputs and the time horizon—short-run supply tends to be less elastic than long-run supply.
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Supply Curve Elasticity
Inelasticity
Perfect Inelasticity
Formulas
Elasticity = % change in quantity supplied / % change in price
Theorems
Law of Supply
Elasticity of Supply
Suitable Grade Level
High School Economics