Which of the following best describes total cost in the context of production?

• A. Total cost is equal to fixed cost divided by variable cost.
• B. Total cost is the difference between variable cost and fixed cost.
• C. Total cost is the sum of fixed cost and variable cost at each level of output.
• D. Total cost is the product of fixed cost and variable cost.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definition of total cost in production: Total cost represents the overall expense incurred in producing a certain quantity of output.
2. Recall that fixed costs are costs that do not change with the level of output (e.g., rent, salaries), while variable costs change with output (e.g., raw materials, labor hours).
3. Recognize that total cost combines both fixed and variable costs because producing output requires covering both types of expenses.
4. Express total cost mathematically as: \(\text{Total Cost} = \text{Fixed Cost} + \text{Variable Cost}\), where both components are measured at the same level of output.
5. Evaluate the given options by comparing them to this formula to identify which one correctly describes total cost.