Calculating elasticity of substitution help

In summary, the elasticity of substitution between y and x for the function F(x,y) = 10x^2 + 15y^2 can be calculated using the formula $\dfrac{1}{1-\rho}$, where rho represents the power. In this case, the Marginal Rate of Substitution was first calculated as 20x/30y, and the final answer in the book is -1. This formula can be used for other functions with different powers as well.
  • #1
bart11
6
0
Calculate the elasticity of substitution between y and x for F(x,y) = 10x^2 + 15y^2

I was able to calculate the Marginal Rate of Substitution as 20x/30y but I'm not sure how to proceed past that. The answer in the book is -1. Any and all help appreciated!
 
Mathematics news on Phys.org
  • #2
bart11 said:
Calculate the elasticity of substitution between y and x for F(x,y) = 10x^2 + 15y^2

I was able to calculate the Marginal Rate of Substitution as 20x/30y but I'm not sure how to proceed past that. The answer in the book is -1. Any and all help appreciated!

denote rho as the power.

Then elasticity of substitution is

$\dfrac{1}{1-\rho}$

If the power is different, you would have to use the formula.
 
  • #3
dwsmith said:
denote rho as the power.

Then elasticity of substitution is

$\dfrac{1}{1-\rho}$

If the power is different, you would have to use the formula.

Sorry but I'm not sure if I follow. Rho? And I believe the book taught us using the formula so I may be a little confused. Thanks for the help!
 

FAQ: Calculating elasticity of substitution help

What is elasticity of substitution?

Elasticity of substitution is a measure of how easily one input (such as labor) can be replaced with another input (such as capital) without changing the overall output. It is used to analyze the production process and determine the optimal combination of inputs to use in order to produce the desired level of output.

How is elasticity of substitution calculated?

Elasticity of substitution can be calculated using the formula: ε = (∂lnK/∂lnL), where K is the quantity of capital and L is the quantity of labor. This formula measures the percentage change in the ratio of capital to labor, as one input is substituted for the other.

What is a high elasticity of substitution?

A high elasticity of substitution means that the two inputs can be easily substituted for each other, with minimal impact on the overall level of output. This suggests that the production process is flexible and can adapt to changes in input prices or availability.

Why is elasticity of substitution important?

Elasticity of substitution is important because it helps firms make decisions about how to produce goods and services in the most efficient and cost-effective way. It also has implications for the distribution of income between labor and capital, as well as the overall efficiency of the economy.

What factors affect the elasticity of substitution?

The elasticity of substitution can be influenced by factors such as technological advances, the availability and cost of inputs, and the substitutability of inputs in the production process. It can also vary across industries and time periods, depending on the specific economic conditions.

Back
Top