On the monopoly graph, use the black points (plus symbol) to shade the area that represents the loss of welfare, or deadweight loss, caused by a monopoly. That is, show the area that was formerly part of total surplus and now does not accrue to anybody. Deadweight loss occurs when a market is controlled by a monopoly because the resulting equilibrium is different from the (efficient) competitive outcome. In the following table, enter the price and quantity that would arise in a competitive market; then enter the profit-maximizing price and quantity t would be chosen if a monopolist controlled this market. Market Structure Price (Dollars) Quantity (Gyros) Competitive Monopoly Given the summary table of the two different market structures, you can infer that, in general, the price is lower under a and the quantity is lower under a

What is a natural monopoly?

Suppose the market for Hula Hoops is monopolized by a single firm. a. Draw the initial equilibrium for such a market. b. Now suppose the demand for Hula Hoops shifts outward slightly. Show that, in general (contrary to the competitive case), it will not be possible to predict the effect of this shift in demand on the market price of Hula Hoops. c. Consider three possible ways in which the price elasticity of demand might change as the demand curve shifts: It might increase, it might decrease, or it might stay the same. Consider also that marginal costs for the monopolist might be increasing, decreasing, or constant in the range where MR=MC Consequently, there are nine different combinations of types of demand shifts and marginal cost slope configurations. Analyze each of these to determine for which it is possible to make a definite prediction about the effect of the shift in demand on the price of Hula Hoops.