Asked by Tanya Ottosson on May 19, 2024

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Use separate graphs to draw indifference curves for each of the following utility functions:
a.U(x, y) min2x  y,2y  x.
b.U(x, y) max2x  y,2y  x.
c.U(x, y) x  minx, y.In which of these cases are preferences convex?

Utility Function

An expression that quantitatively describes how consumer preferences are ordered, indicating the level of happiness or fulfillment they derive from various goods or services.

Indifference Curves

Graphical representations used in microeconomics to illustrate different combinations of two goods among which a consumer is indifferent in terms of utility or satisfaction.

Preferences Convex

A characteristic of consumer choices where combinations of goods are preferred over extreme options, illustrating a desire for variety.

  • Examine and distinguish the features of diverse utility functions, including quasilinear, homothetic, and perfect substitutes.
  • Acquire insight into the nature of indifference curves and the way they signify consumer tastes.
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TQ
taylor quickMay 20, 2024
Final Answer :
If you take a point on the line x  y and draw two lines through it, one with a slope of 1/2 and the other with a slope of 2, the outer envelope of these lines will be an indifference curve for (a)and the inner envelope will be an indifference curve for (b).The indifference curves for (c)passing through a point on the line x  y consist of a line segment going down and to the right with slope 1 and a line segment going up and to the left with slope 2.Cases (a)and (c)display convex preferences, and case (b)does not.