Chapter 1: Problem 85
85-86.The intersection of an isocost line \(w L+r K=C\) and an isoquant curve \(K=a L^{b}\) (see pages 18 and 31 ) gives the amounts of labor \(L\) and capital \(K\) for fixed production and cost. Find the intersection point \((L, K)\) of each isocost and isoquant. [Hint: After substituting the second expression into the first, multiply through by \(L\) and factor.] $$ 3 L+8 K=48 \text { and } K=24 \cdot L^{-1} $$
Short Answer
Step by step solution
Substitute Isoquant into Isocost
Simplify the Equation
Eliminate the Fraction
Rearrange into Quadratic Form
Solve the Quadratic Equation
Calculate L
Calculate K using Isoquant Equation
Confirm the Solution
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Understanding Calculus Problem Solving in Economics
- Identifying what needs to be solved, in this case, the intersection points (L, K).
- Substituting one equation into the other to simplify the process, as done in step 1 by inserting the isoquant into the isocost equation.
- Utilizing mathematical techniques to tackle different forms of equations, as seen in step 2 where simplification and step 3 where fractions are eliminated.
Tackling Quadratic Equations
- Rearrange terms into standard quadratic form, highlighting the need for a clear arrangement to apply the quadratic formula.
- Use the quadratic formula: \(L = \frac{-b \pm \sqrt{b^2 - 4ac}}{2a}\) to find the roots of the equation, which involves calculating the discriminant \(b^2 - 4ac\).
- A zero discriminant, as in the exercise, indicates one unique real solution, simplifying the task as opposed to handling multiple roots.
Exploring Economic Theory: Isocosts and Isoquants
- The isocost line \(3L + 8K = 48\) corresponds to resource costs, while the isoquant \(K = 24 \cdot L^{-1}\) signifies the production level.
- The task is to find their intersection, which reveals the optimal combination of inputs (L and K) for given cost and production constraints.
- This intersection signifies where cost minimization meets output maximization, a vital concept in economic production theory.