1. The pipeline industry has approximately 100 companies, as compared to the motor carrier industry with more than 50,000. What are the underlying economic causes for this difference, given the fact...

1. The pipeline industry has approximately 100 companies, as compared to the motor carrier industry with more than 50,000. What are the underlying economic causes for this difference, given the fact that they both carry approximately the same volume of intercity ton-miles?

2. The typical pipeline company has high fixed costs. What economic factors account for this situation? What advantages and disadvantages does their cost structure present?