In the theory of the consumer behavior, a consumer is said to maximize utility when...

ECONOMICSJAMB 2016

In the theory of the consumer behavior, a consumer is said to maximize utility when

  • A. Marginal utility of a commodity is equal to the price paid for it
  • B. Marginal utility of a commodity X is equal to the price of commodity Y
  • C. Average utility of a commodity is equal to the price paid for it
  • D. Total utility of a commodity is equal to the price paid for it

Correct Answer: A. Marginal utility of a commodity is equal to the price paid for it

Explanation

MUx/Px = MUy/Py, where MUx is the marginal utility derived from good x, Px is the price of good x, MUy is the marginal utility of good y and Py is the price of good y. A consumer should spend his limited money income on the goods which give him the most marginal utility per dollar. Only when the ratio of MU/P is equal for all goods is a consumer maximizing his total utility.

Back to JAMB 2016 QuestionsPrevious QuestionNext Question


Post an Explanation Or Report an Error

If you see any wrong question or answer, please leave a comment below and we'll take a look. If you doubt why the selected answer is correct or need additional more details? Please drop a comment or Contact us directly.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Don't want to keep filling in name and email whenever you make a contribution? Register or login to make contributing easier.