1. A firm uses two variable inputs, labor, L, and raw materials, M, with typically shaped isoquants. It pays $20 per hour for L and $5 per unit for M. At the current mix of L and M, the marginal products of L and M are:

MPL = 20

MPM = 4

Is the firm minimizing costs? If not, what steps should it take to lower costs and still produce the same level of output?

2. A firm uses two variable inputs, labor, L, and raw materials, M, with typically shaped isoquants. It pays $20 per hour for L and $5 per unit for M. At the current mix of L and M, the marginal products of L and M are:

MPL = 20

MPM = 4

Is the firm minimizing costs? If not, what steps should it take to lower costs and still produce the same level of output?