Math Problem Statement

Suppose that a monopolist has a constant marginal cost curve. That is, for each unit of output that the monopolist produces, it costs an additional $64 . The monopolist's marginal revenue is MR=200−8Q , where Q is the quantity produced. The demand curve is P=200−4Q .

What is the monopolist's profit-maximizing output and price? Write the exact answer. Do not round.

Solution

To find the monopolist's profit-maximizing output and price, we need to set the marginal cost equal to the marginal revenue, as the profit-maximizing condition for a monopolist is where MC=MR\text{MC} = \text{MR}.

Step 1: Set Up the Information

  1. Marginal Cost (MC): The marginal cost is constant at MC=64MC = 64.
  2. Marginal Revenue (MR): Given by MR=2008QMR = 200 - 8Q.
  3. Demand Curve (P): The price function is P=2004QP = 200 - 4Q.

Step 2: Set MC=MR\text{MC} = \text{MR}

To maximize profit, we equate MC\text{MC} and MR\text{MR}: 64=2008Q64 = 200 - 8Q

Step 3: Solve for QQ

Rearrange the equation to solve for QQ: 8Q=200648Q = 200 - 64 8Q=1368Q = 136 Q=1368=17Q = \frac{136}{8} = 17

So, the profit-maximizing output is Q=17Q = 17.

Step 4: Find the Profit-Maximizing Price

To find the corresponding price, substitute Q=17Q = 17 into the demand equation: P=2004QP = 200 - 4Q P=2004×17P = 200 - 4 \times 17 P=20068P = 200 - 68 P=132P = 132

Final Answer

The monopolist's profit-maximizing output and price are:

  • Quantity (QQ): 17
  • Price (PP): 132

Would you like further details or have any questions?


Here are some related questions:

  1. How would the profit-maximizing output change if the marginal cost increased?
  2. What would happen to the monopolist's price if the demand curve shifted downward?
  3. How does a monopolist’s price compare to a perfectly competitive firm’s price with the same cost and demand conditions?
  4. Why does a monopolist set marginal cost equal to marginal revenue to maximize profits?
  5. How would consumer surplus be affected by this monopolist's pricing?

Tip: In monopoly problems, understanding the relationship between marginal revenue and marginal cost is crucial for determining profit-maximizing outcomes.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Calculus
Economics
Monopoly Profit Maximization

Formulas

Profit-maximizing condition: MR = MC
Marginal Revenue: MR = 200 - 8Q
Demand Curve: P = 200 - 4Q

Theorems

Monopoly Profit Maximization

Suitable Grade Level

College Level (Introductory Economics/Calculus)