2.1 Answer the following questions - NSC Economics - Question 2 - 2023 - Paper 2
Question 2
2.1 Answer the following questions.
2.1.1 Name TWO types of costs that are used to calculate the total costs of a firm.
2.1.2 How does the government address the ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:2.1 Answer the following questions - NSC Economics - Question 2 - 2023 - Paper 2
Step 1
Name TWO types of costs that are used to calculate the total costs of a firm.
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Answer
The two types of costs that are used to calculate total costs of a firm are:
Variable Costs: These are costs that change with the level of output. For example, raw materials and labor costs vary depending on the production volume.
Fixed Costs: These costs remain constant regardless of the level of production. Examples include rent, salaries of permanent staff, and insurance.
Step 2
How does the government address the challenge of an oversupply of demerit goods?
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The government can address the challenge of an oversupply of demerit goods by implementing taxes on these goods. For instance, by levying taxes such as sin taxes, the government can discourage the consumption of demerit goods, which consequently reduces the quantities supplied in the market.
Step 3
Identify any ONE term in the extract that relates to price formation.
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Answer
One term in the extract that relates to price formation is Demand/Supply.
Step 4
Name the market structure where price fixing is common.
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Answer
Oligopoly is the market structure where price fixing is common, as a few firms dominate the market and can coordinate their pricing strategies.
Step 5
Briefly describe the term cartel.
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A cartel is an organization of firms that come together to set prices and limit production, effectively operating like a monopoly. By coordinating their activities, firms in a cartel can manipulate market conditions to maximize their profits.
Step 6
Explain the role of the Competition Commission in the economy.
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The Competition Commission investigates and monitors businesses to prevent anti-competitive practices. It can impose penalties on firms found guilty of activities such as price fixing, ensuring fair competition and protecting consumers.
Step 7
How can low prices negatively affect the producers of goods and services?
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Low prices can have several negative impacts on producers:
Producers may struggle to cover their production costs, potentially leading to financial losses.
Reduced profits can hinder the ability to pay employees, resulting in job cuts or layoffs.
Persistent low prices might deter investment, as investors may withdraw their support due to insufficient returns.