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Understanding the Production Function in AP Economics with Mr. Bernstein

This module by Mr. Bernstein explores the production function, highlighting the relationship between a firm's inputs and outputs. It distinguishes between variable inputs, which can be adjusted in the short run, and fixed inputs, which remain constant. The concepts of total product (TP) and marginal product (MP) are examined, demonstrating how TP changes with varying levels of input and the implications of diminishing returns. Graphical representations illustrate these concepts, providing a clear understanding of how production functions operate in economic contexts.

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Understanding the Production Function in AP Economics with Mr. Bernstein

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  1. AP Economics Mr. Bernstein Module 54: The Production Function November 3, 2014

  2. AP EconomicsMr. Bernstein The Production Function • The relationship between and firm’s inputs and outputs • In general, the relationship is positive

  3. AP EconomicsMr. Bernstein Input and Output • Variable Inputs: can be increased to increase production • Fixed Inputs: cannot be increased in the near term to increase production • The short run: at least one input is fixed. The time period that is too brief for a firm to alter its plant size (capital is fixed) • The long run: all inputs may vary A period of time long enough for a firm to vary all inputs, including capital (ie plant size) • Time of “long run” varies by firm

  4. AP EconomicsMr. Bernstein Total Product • TP (or Q) • Production function shows TP at various levels of a variable input or inputs (ie labor, raw materials) and fixed input (capital) • Typically increases rapidly at first (ie as new workers are hired) but as opportunities to specialize have been implemented, will rise slower…and eventually turn downward

  5. AP EconomicsMr. Bernstein Marginal Product • The additional output produced as a result of hiring one more unit of the input • MPL = (Δ Total Output)/(Δ Labor) • MPC = (Δ Total Output)/(Δ Capital) • MP = slope of TP curve • TP curves demonstrate Diminishing Returns to Inputs • As more and more of a variable input is added to a fixed input, the additional output produced will decline • Not due to inferior quality of inputs

  6. AP EconomicsMr. Bernstein Total Product Presented Graphically • MP can be diminishing but TP keeps rising until MP<0

  7. AP EconomicsMr. Bernstein Marginal Product Presented Graphically • MP is diminishing , and therefore TP rising, until QL ~= 6.5

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