Which of the following is an example of wasted flow time in economics?

• A. A firm efficiently allocating resources to maximize output
• B. A customer purchasing a product immediately upon arrival
• C. A machine operating at full capacity
• D. A worker waiting for materials to arrive before starting production

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of 'wasted flow time' in economics, which refers to periods when resources (such as labor or machinery) are idle or waiting, causing inefficiency in the production process.
2. Analyze each option to identify if it involves any idle time or waiting that does not contribute to productive output.
3. Recognize that 'a worker waiting for materials to arrive before starting production' clearly involves idle time where the worker cannot proceed, representing wasted flow time.
4. Contrast this with other options: efficient resource allocation, immediate purchasing, and machines operating at full capacity all indicate productive or efficient use of resources without idle time.
5. Conclude that the example of wasted flow time is the scenario where the worker is waiting, as it directly illustrates a delay in the production flow causing inefficiency.