In economics producers – often referred to as firms or companies play a role in using inputs (different factors of production) and producing goods and services (output). Firms play a key role in deciding what to produce and how to produce. Different types of firms Individual entrepreneurs – self-employed individuals Private companies – often small/mid-sized …
Competition is an essential element of market economies. Different firms have the freedom to attract customers based on price, quality, service and convenient. The type of competition will depend on the product and market structure. For example, in a market with many traders selling potatoes, price will be a key factor. Consumers will shop around …
A product market refers to a place where goods and services are bought and sold A factor market refers to the employment of factors of production, such as labour, capital and land. Product market Demand for product markets comes primarily from households The main sellers of goods are different kinds of firms. Demand for goods …
Environmental sustainability is concerned with whether environmental resources will be protected and maintained for future generations. Issues of environmental sustainability Environmental sustainability is concerned with issues such as: Long-term health of ecosystems. Protecting the long-term productivity and health of resources to meet future economic and social needs, e.g. protecting food supplies, farmland and fishing stocks. …
Explain the role of the main economic groups: consumers, producers and the government. Within an economy, there are three main groups of agents. Producers Consumers Government 1. Consumers Individuals and households who provide labour to firms and purchase goods and services. Consumers pay income tax on wages and pay indirect taxes on purchases, for example, …
Cobweb theory is the idea that price fluctuations can lead to fluctuations in supply which cause a cycle of rising and falling prices. In a simple cobweb model, we assume there is an agricultural market where supply can vary due to variable factors, such as the weather. Assumptions of Cobweb theory In an agricultural market, …
Economic growth means an increase in real GDP – this leads to higher output and higher average incomes. Governments often try to increase the growth rate because it will have various advantages. These include Benefits of economic growth Increased consumption. Firstly, higher GDP implies the economy is producing more goods and services and therefore consumers …
Factor immobility occurs when it is difficult for factors of production (e.g. labour and capital) to move between different areas of the economy. Factor immobility could involve: Geographical immobility – When it is difficult to move from one geographical area to another. Occupational immobility – difficult to move from one type of work to another. …