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Types of Subsidies
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If a government decides to implement a per unit subsidy for a specific industry, how is this likely to affect the short-run production decisions of firms in that industry?

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Choose the Best Answer

A

Firms will increase production as their marginal cost decreases with each unit produced.

B

Firms will maintain current production levels since subsidies do not influence market prices.

C

Firms will reduce production to maximize profits since subsidies increase overall costs.

D

Firms will only consider the lump sum nature of subsidies and ignore per unit incentives.

Understanding the Answer

Let's break down why this is correct

Answer

When a government gives a per unit subsidy to a specific industry, it means that the government will pay a certain amount for each unit of product that the firms in that industry produce. This extra money makes it cheaper for firms to produce their goods, which can encourage them to produce more in the short run. For example, if a dairy farm receives a subsidy of $2 for every gallon of milk produced, the farm can lower its prices or increase its profits, leading to more milk being produced. As a result, firms may hire more workers or buy more materials to take advantage of the subsidy. Overall, the subsidy can lead to increased production and potentially lower prices for consumers in the short term.

Detailed Explanation

When the government gives money for each unit made, it lowers the cost for firms. Other options are incorrect because Some might think subsidies don't change prices, but they actually help firms lower costs; It's a common mistake to think subsidies raise costs.

Key Concepts

Types of Subsidies
Firm Behavior in Microeconomics
Government Intervention
Topic

Types of Subsidies

Difficulty

medium level question

Cognitive Level

understand

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