What happens to fixed costs over time as production continues?

Fixed costs are costs that do not change with the level of production in the short run. They remain constant regardless of how much or how little a company produces. This characteristic is crucial for businesses, as it allows for planning and budgeting; companies can predict fixed expenses such as rent, salaries of permanent staff, and depreciation of equipment without concern for fluctuations in production volume.

Over time, particularly in the short run, these costs do not alter; they remain unchanged despite variations in output. This stability is essential for understanding the overall cost structure of a business and for making strategic decisions about scaling production or adjusting pricing strategies.

In the long run, however, fixed costs can change, as businesses may invest in new facilities or equipment, but immediately after production begins and during operations, they tend to be stable.