Indicate how each of the following would shift the (1) marginal-cost curve, (2) average-variable-cost curve, (3) average-fixed-cost curve, and (4) average-total-cost curve of a manufacturing firm. In each case specify the direction of the shift.

Required:

a. A reduction in business property taxes.

b. An increase in the nominal wages of production workers.

c. A decrease in the price of electricity.

d. An increase in insurance rates on plant and equipment.

e. An increase in transportation costs.

a. A reduction in business property taxes. Fixed cost.

Marginal cost curve = No change

Average variable cost curve = No change

Average-fixed-cost curve = Shift down

Average-total-cost curve = Shift down

b. An increase in the nominal wages of production workers is a Variable cost.

Marginal cost curve = Shift up

Average variable cost curve = Shift up

Average-fixed-cost curve = No change

Average-total-cost curve = Shift up

c. A decrease in the price of electricity (Variable cost)

Marginal cost curve = Shift down

Average variable cost curve = Shift down

Average-fixed-cost curve = No change

Average-total-cost curve = Shift down

d. An increase in insurance rates on plant and equipment. (Fixed cost)

Marginal cost curve = No change

Average variable cost curve = No change

Average-fixed-cost curve = Shift up

Average-total-cost curve = Shift up

e. An increase in transportation costs. (Variable cost)

Marginal cost curve = Shift up

Average variable cost curve = Shift up

Average-fixed-cost curve = No change

Average-total-cost curve = Shift up