Seekh Logo

AI-powered learning platform providing comprehensive practice questions, detailed explanations, and interactive study tools across multiple subjects.

Explore Subjects

Sciences
  • Astronomy
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Physics
Humanities
  • Psychology
  • History
  • Philosophy

Learning Tools

  • Study Library
  • Practice Quizzes
  • Flashcards
  • Study Summaries
  • Q&A Bank
  • PDF to Quiz Converter
  • Video Summarizer
  • Smart Flashcards

Support

  • Help Center
  • Contact Us
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service
  • Pricing

© 2025 Seekh Education. All rights reserved.

Seekh Logo
HomeHomework HelpeconomicsInflationary Gaps and Unemployment

Inflationary Gaps and Unemployment

The concept of inflationary gaps refers to a situation where actual unemployment is lower than the natural rate, leading to higher than expected inflation rates. This occurs when resource allocation exceeds full employment levels, causing wage and input price increases that eventually shift the short-run Phillips curve to the right, establishing a new equilibrium. Understanding this relationship is crucial for analyzing how inflation expectations and labor market dynamics impact overall economic stability.

intermediate
2 hours
Economics
0 views this week
Study FlashcardsQuick Summary
0

Overview

Inflationary gaps occur when the demand for goods and services surpasses their supply, leading to increased prices and lower unemployment rates. This situation can create a temporary boost in economic activity, but it may also lead to long-term issues if inflation remains unchecked. Understanding th...

Quick Links

Study FlashcardsQuick SummaryPractice Questions

Key Terms

Inflation
The rate at which the general level of prices for goods and services rises.

Example: If inflation is 2%, a $100 item will cost $102 next year.

Unemployment Rate
The percentage of the labor force that is jobless and actively seeking employment.

Example: If 10 out of 100 workers are unemployed, the unemployment rate is 10%.

Aggregate Demand
The total demand for goods and services within an economy at a given overall price level.

Example: An increase in consumer spending raises aggregate demand.

Economic Equilibrium
A state where economic forces such as supply and demand are balanced.

Example: At equilibrium, the quantity of goods supplied equals the quantity demanded.

Phillips Curve
A concept that shows the inverse relationship between inflation and unemployment.

Example: Lower unemployment can lead to higher inflation, according to the Phillips Curve.

Demand-Pull Inflation
Inflation caused by an increase in demand for goods and services.

Example: During a booming economy, demand-pull inflation can occur.

Related Topics

Monetary Policy
The process by which the central bank manages the money supply to influence the economy.
intermediate
Fiscal Policy
Government spending and tax policies used to influence economic conditions.
intermediate
Business Cycles
Fluctuations in economic activity over time, including periods of expansion and contraction.
intermediate

Key Concepts

Inflationary GapUnemployment RateAggregate DemandEconomic Equilibrium