JAMB Economics Past Questions & Answers - Page 179

891.

The rising portion of the long-run average cost curve of a firm is an indication that it is experiencing

A.

Increasing efficiency

B.

Economies of scale

C.

Diseconomies of scale

D.

Increasing marginal returns

Correct answer is C

The long-run average cost (LRAC) curve shows the firm's lowest cost per unit at each level of output, assuming that all factors of production are variable.

As long as the LRAC curve is declining, then internal economies of scale are being exploited. If LRAC is falling when output is increasing, then the firm is experiencing economies of scale. If it is rising, it means the firm is experiencing diseconomies of scale.

892.

A firm enjoying economies of scale is said to be

A.

Reducing average cost as production increases

B.

Benefiting from the activities of other firms

C.

Maximizing profits as production increases

D.

Having an upward-sloping average cost curve

Correct answer is A

As long as the Long run average cost curve is declining, then internal economies of scale are being exploited. If LRAC is falling when output is increasing, then the firm is experiencing economies of scale.

893.

Average product is less than marginal product when

A.

There is constant returns to scale

B.

There is increasing returns to scale

C.

There is decreasing returns to scale

D.

Diminishing returns set in

Correct answer is C

No explanation has been provided for this answer.

894.

In order to reduce hardship faced by consumers due to high prices government can introduce

A.

Maximum prices

B.

Commodity boards

C.

Minimum prices

D.

Price control boards

Correct answer is A

Price controls are government-mandated minimum or maximum prices that can be charged for specified goods.

The government would normally fix a maximum price at which goods are to be sold. Maximum prices can reduce the price of food to make it more affordable to the citizens and reduce hardship and exploitation from sellers. But the problem is a maximum price may lead to lower supply and a shortage. 

895.

In perfect competition, price is determined by the

A.

Government

B.

Sellers

C.

Buyers

D.

Market

Correct answer is D

The price in perfect competition is determined by market forces which is demand and supply. There is one market price in perfect competition, firms can't charge different prices as they are selling identical products. In perfect competition the firms and sellers are price takers.