Question
In this problem, you can assume all solutions are interior. Suppose the hourly wage is $20 and the price of each unit of capital is
In this problem, you can assume all solutions are interior. Suppose the hourly wage is $20 and the price of each unit of capital is $20. The price of output is constant at $60 per unit. The production function is:
F(E, K) = E^ 1/9K^1/3
(a) If the current capital stock is fixed at 64 units, how much labor should the firm use in the short run? How much profit will the firm earn?
(b) How much labor and capital should the firm use in the long run? How much profit will the firm earn?
(c) Now, assume w = $40. Repeat (b).
(d) Find substitution and scale effects from (b) to (c). Include a table like the one at the end of this document. Not just with the signs but the actual values of substitution and scale effects!
(e) On a graph below, draw isoquant and isocost curves for (b) and (c) and show the allocations that you find in (b), (c) and (d). (f) Are the substitution and scale effects that you found in (d) consistent with the theory? Why?
(g) Calculate short-run and long-run labor demand elasticities based on your answers in (a) and (b), respectively. What does the theory say about the relationship between them? Is it consistent with your results? Why or why not?
Step by Step Solution
There are 3 Steps involved in it
Step: 1
Get Instant Access to Expert-Tailored Solutions
See step-by-step solutions with expert insights and AI powered tools for academic success
Step: 2
Step: 3
Ace Your Homework with AI
Get the answers you need in no time with our AI-driven, step-by-step assistance
Get Started