Final answer:
The range of forecasted volumes and the point of indifference between two processes can be determined by analyzing and comparing their cost structures. Without specific data, the total cost at the point of indifference cannot be calculated.
Step-by-step explanation:
The subject question involves finding the range of forecasted volumes where each process (Process A and Process B) is optimal, specifically when they have the same total cost, known as the point of indifference. To accurately determine this point, one would need to analyze the cost structures of both processes and solve for the quantity at which their total costs are equal. For example, if Process A has a fixed cost of $1000 and a variable cost of $10 per unit, and Process B has a fixed cost of $500 and a variable cost of $20 per unit, the point of indifference occurs where the total cost of Process A equals the total cost of Process B.
Using the given information, the marginal cost for the second unit increases from $1500 to $1800 as output increases from 1 unit to 2 units. Hence, the marginal cost would be the change in total cost divided by the change in quantity, which is $(1800 - 1500) / (2 - 1) = $300. Regarding the forecasted volumes for operating optimally and at a break-even point, one would have to compile the different scenarios by analyzing the cost and revenue at different price points, such as $5.00, $2.75, and $2.00 per pack of frozen raspberries, and find the corresponding quantities where each process is optimal.
In summary, to find the point of indifference between two processes, we need to know their cost structures and solve for the quantity where the total costs are the same. However, without specific data regarding Process A and Process B's costs, we cannot calculate the total cost at the point of indifference, and therefore cannot fill in the blank for the total cost value in the question.