📚 Learning Guide
Externalities and Social Optimum
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Which of the following scenarios best illustrates a market failure due to external costs that affect the social cost of producing a particular good?

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Learning Path
Learning Path

Question & Answer
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Choose AnswerChoose the Best Answer

A

A factory pollutes a river, leading to increased health care costs for nearby residents.

B

A new smartphone is released, resulting in increased consumer spending.

C

A local bakery donates leftover bread to a charity.

D

A public library expands its collection, attracting more visitors.

Understanding the Answer

Let's break down why this is correct

When the factory releases waste into the river, the bad water harms the health of people nearby. Other options are incorrect because A new phone does not add hidden costs to others; Giving away bread does not hurt anyone else; it only helps people.

Key Concepts

Market Failure
Social Cost
Topic

Externalities and Social Optimum

Difficulty

medium level question

Cognitive Level

understand

Deep Dive: Externalities and Social Optimum

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Definition
Definition

Externalities occur when the marginal social benefit or cost of a good differs from the private benefit or cost. The socially optimal output level accounts for externalities, aiming to align production with maximum social welfare by considering all costs and benefits. Understanding externalities is crucial to address market inefficiencies and achieve overall welfare maximization.

Topic Definition

Externalities occur when the marginal social benefit or cost of a good differs from the private benefit or cost. The socially optimal output level accounts for externalities, aiming to align production with maximum social welfare by considering all costs and benefits. Understanding externalities is crucial to address market inefficiencies and achieve overall welfare maximization.

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