Hw#2: multiple choice questions (15 points) Deadline: March 20 1. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, nonfarm labor productivity rose at an annualized rate of 0.9 percent in the second quarter of 2017 as hours worked and output per worker both rose at their fastest pace in 18 months. Compared to the same quarter in 2016, productivity increased at a rate of 1.2 percent, its best performance in two years., while unit labor costs fell at a rate of 0.2 percent. From 2007 to 2016, labor productivity increased at an average annual rate of 1.2 percent, well below its long - term growth rate of 2.1 percent from 1947 to 2016. This is an indication of a decline in the potential growth rate, blamed in part on a shortage of workers and low capital expenditure. Source: Lucia Mutikani, "U.S. productivity rises in second quarter, keeps labor costs in check," reuters.com, August 9, 2017. In the second quarter of 2017, labor productivity in the United States rose at its fastest pace in 18 months. Labor productivity is important for an economy because an increase in labor productivity A. will increase the labor force participation rate. O B. allows the average consumer to increase consumption. O c. will increase output and decrease wages in the long run. O D. will create short - run, but not long - run, economic growth. 2. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, nonfarm labor productivity rose at an annualized rate of 0.9 percent in the second quarter of 2017 as hours worked and output per worker both rose at their fastest pace in 18 months. Compared to the same quarter in 2016, productivity increased at a rate of 1.2 percent, its best performance in two years., while unit labor costs fell at a rate of 0.2 percent. From 2007 to 2016, labor productivity increased at an average annual rate of 1.2 percent, well below its long - term growth rate of 2.1 percent from 1947 to 2016. This is an indication of a decline in the potential growth rate, blamed in part on a shortage of workers and low capital expenditure