Question: The demand function for widgets is given by D(P) = 16 − 2P. Compute the change inconsumer surplus when price of a widget increases for $1 to $3. Illustrate your result graphically
Answer:
For price of a widget equal to $1 consumer surplus is
D(1) = 16 - 2(1) = 14
CS₁ = ½ × (8 – 1) × D(1) = ½ × 7 × 14 = 49.
When price is equal to $3 consumer surplus is
D(3) = 16 - 2(3) = 10
CS₃ = ½ × (8 – 3) × D(3) = ½ × 5 × 10 = 25