1. Consider the following information for a certain table manufacturer in the short run (with its existing plant and equipment): Units of Labor: 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Number of Tables: 0 4 10 18 24 28 30 28 25

a. Find and plot the marginal and average product of labor (MPL and APL) for this production function.

b. Does this production function exhibit diminishing marginal returns to labor? Explain.

c. Briefly explain in terms of production theory what might cause the marginal product of labor to become negative (as observed for the 7th and 8th units of labor).

d. You were hired as a consultant by the firm's CEO, who is concerned about the low productivity of his workers relative to other table manufacturers in the industry - despite being happy and motivated. Can you suggest the CEO a way (or two) to increase labor productivity?

Note: Please show all work on a piece of paper if possible