Q. The subsequent graph represents a natural monopoly.
a. Why this firm considered a natural monopoly? Because (Long Run) Average Cost is always downward-sloping.
b. If the firm is unregulated, Illustrate what price also output would maximize its profit? Illustrate what would be its profit or loss?
c. If a regulatory commission establishes a price with the goal of achieving allocative efficiency, Illustrate what would be the price also output? Illustrate what would be the firm's profit or loss?
d. If a regulatory commission establishes a price with the goal of allowing the firm a "fair return," Illustrate what would be the price also output? Illustrate what would be the firm's profit or loss?
e. Which one of the prices in parts b, c also d maximizes consumer surplus? Illustrate what problem, if any, occurs at this price?