Suppose that flu shots create a positive externality equal to $8 per shot. Further suppose that the government offers a $11-per-shot subsidy to producers. What is the relationship between the equilibrium quantity and the socially optimal quantity of flu shots produced?

Question

Wendy Hogan

Business

1 February, 17:25

Suppose that flu shots create a positive externality equal to $8 per shot. Further suppose that the government offers a $11-per-shot subsidy to producers. What is the relationship between the equilibrium quantity and the socially optimal quantity of flu shots produced?

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Answers (1)

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Cristopher Cardenas · Answer 1

The answer is: the equilibrium quantity is larger than the socially optimal quantity.

Explanation:

In order for the equilibrium quantity and the socially optimal quantity to be equal, the government subsidy should have been equal to the positive externality created by the flu shots ($8). Since the government subsidy is larger, $11, then the equilibrium quantity will be higher (more flu shots supplied because of high subsidy).