In a standard graphical model of a market with a positive consumption externality, the marginal social benefit (MSB) curve lies above the marginal private benefit (MPB) curve, and the supply curve represents the marginal social cost (MSC). The market's equilibrium results in a quantity that is less than the socially optimal quantity. To correct this market failure, what is the precise value of the per-unit subsidy that would align the private equilibrium with the social optimum?

Analyzing a Subsidy for Higher Education

A market for a good with a positive consumption externality is depicted on a standard graph. The curves are: S = Marginal Social Cost (MSC), D = Marginal Private Benefit (MPB), and MSB = Marginal Social Benefit, which lies above the D curve. The initial market equilibrium quantity is Qm (where D intersects S), and the socially optimal quantity is Qopt (where MSB intersects S). A corrective per-unit subsidy is implemented to move the market to Qopt. Match each economic concept with its correct gr

Consider a market for a good whose consumption creates a positive externality. The market is represented by a standard supply and demand graph where:

• The supply curve (S) represents the marginal social cost.
• The demand curve (D) represents the marginal private benefit.
• A third curve (MSB) represents the marginal social benefit and lies above the demand curve.
• The intersection of S and D occurs at quantity Q1.
• The intersection of S and MSB occurs at quantity Q2.
• At quantity Q2, the pr

Graphical Effect of a Corrective Subsidy

In a market with a positive consumption externality, where the quantity produced is less than the socially optimal level, implementing a per-unit subsidy of any size will always lead to an increase in total social welfare compared to the initial market outcome.

Consider a market for a good where consumption provides benefits to individuals other than the direct consumer. The market is represented on a graph with Price on the vertical axis and Quantity on the horizontal axis.

• The upward-sloping supply curve represents the marginal social cost (MSC).
• The downward-sloping demand curve represents the marginal private benefit (MPB).
• A third curve, representing the marginal social benefit (MSB), lies above the demand curve.

The market initially operat

Consider a market for a good whose consumption generates benefits for third parties. The market is represented on a graph with Price on the vertical axis and Quantity on the horizontal axis.

• The upward-sloping supply curve (S) represents the marginal social cost.
• The downward-sloping demand curve (D) represents the marginal private benefit.
• A third curve, representing the marginal social benefit (MSB), lies above the demand curve.

The initial market equilibrium is at point E (quantity Qm,