What generally happens to crop yields when exceeding a certain input level according to the Law of Diminishing Returns?

The Law of Diminishing Returns suggests that as more inputs are added to a production process, such as labor or fertilizers, the additional output gained from those inputs will eventually begin to diminish after a certain point. Initially, increasing inputs may lead to significant increases in crop yields. However, once a threshold is reached, adding even more inputs typically results in smaller incremental increases in yield. Eventually, it can lead to a decline in the efficiency of production, where excess inputs may interfere with optimal growth conditions or lead to issues such as nutrient runoff or over-fertilization. This concept is fundamental in agronomy and helps farmers make informed decisions about resource allocation to optimize crop productivity while minimizing waste and environmental impacts. Essentially, beyond a certain level of input, the marginal gains in yield decrease and can ultimately lead to reduced yields, substantiating why this answer is accurate.