"The Number of Substitutes Available Affects the Price Elasticity of Demand

question 495

Essay

"The number of substitutes available affects the price elasticity of demand for a good. So one way to know if apples and oranges are substitutes for each other is to look at the price elasticity of demand for each." Comment on this assertion.

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Definitions:

Average Total Cost

The total cost divided by the quantity produced, denoting the cost per unit of production.

Natural Monopoly

A market structure where a single supplier is most efficient in producing the goods due to high fixed or startup costs, making it unfeasible for new entrants to compete.

Producer Surplus

The variance between the intended selling price by producers and the real price they end up receiving.

Consumers

Individuals or entities that purchase goods and services for personal use.