Question
Mariaville and Yasmintown are the only producers of matchstick (M) and lamp oil (L) within the sub-region. To produce these products, Mariaville utilizes 20,000 labour
Mariaville and Yasmintown are the only producers of matchstick (M) and lamp oil (L) within the sub-region. To produce these products, Mariaville utilizes 20,000 labour hours (hrs) while Yasmintown has access to 30,000 hrs. Given that each box of M requires 10hrs in Mariaville, 20hs in Yasmintown and each barrel of L requires 30hrs in Yasmintown and 25hrs in Mariaville, answer the following questions.
a. Determine both Mariaville and Yasmintown autarky production if each country uses a 50:50 resource allocation ratio. Name combination Z and Z'. [5 marks]
b. Suppose both countries decide to trade, using opportunity cost, determine which country has the comparative advantage in M and L. Show all working. [5 marks]
c. In preparation for trade, Mariaville will allocate 80% of resources to its advantaged good while Yasmintown will allocate 70% to its advantaged good. Calculate each countries' production with intention to trade. Name combination T and T'. [8 marks]
d. If Mariaville has a constant opportunity cost while Yasmintown has increasing opportunity cost, briefly explain what these terms mean in relation to M and L. [2 marks
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