Definition of market equilibrium – A situation where for a particular good supply = demand. When the market is in equilibrium, there is no tendency for prices to change. We say the market-clearing price has been achieved. A market occurs where buyers and sellers meet to exchange money for goods. The price mechanism refers to …
In economics a shortage occurs when demand is greater than supply, causing unfulfilled demand. A shortage can occur due to Temporary supply constraints, e.g. supply disruption due to weather or accident at a factory. Fixed prices – and unexpected surge in demand, e.g. demand for fuel in cold winter. Government price controls, such as maximum …
Readers Question: What happens when the government subsidizes a product? A subsidy means the government pays part of the cost. For example, the government may give farmers a subsidy of £10 for every kilo of potatoes. The effect is to shift the supply curve to the right, leading to lower price and higher quantity demanded Diagram …
An explanation of how wages are determined in a perfectly competitive labour market. A perfectly competitive labour market will have the following features Many firms Perfect information about wages and job conditions. Firms are offering identical jobs Many workers with the same skills Diagram of wage determination The equilibrium wage rate in the industry is …
Definition of substitute goods – Substitute goods are two alternative goods that could be used for the same purpose. Substitutes present the consumer with alternative choices. If the price of one good increases, then demand for the substitute is likely to rise. Therefore, substitutes have a positive cross elasticity of demand. Graph of two substitute …
Definition of Consumer Surplus This is the difference between what the consumer pays and what he would have been willing to pay. For example: If you would be willing to pay £50 for a ticket to see the F. A. Cup final, but you can buy a ticket for £40. In this case, your consumer …
Disequilibrium occurs when the markets fail to clear and find their final equilibrium point. Disequilibrium could occur if the price was below the market equilibrium price causing demand to be greater than supply, and therefore causing a shortage. Disequilibrium can occur due to factors such as government controls, non-profit maximising decisions and ‘sticky’ prices. Disequilibrium …
The short run, long run and very long run are different time periods in economics. Quick definition Very short run – where all factors of production are fixed. (e.g on one particular day, a firm cannot employ more workers or buy more products to sell) Short run – where one factor of production (e.g. capital) …