📚 Learning Guide
Analyzing Market Equilibrium with Externalities
easy

Which of the following statements accurately describe the implications of positive externalities in market equilibrium? Select all that apply.

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Choose the Best Answer

A

Positive externalities can lead to underproduction of goods.

B

The marginal social benefit is equal to the marginal private benefit at equilibrium.

C

Government subsidies can help achieve a socially optimal output.

D

Positive externalities result in deadweight loss when left uncorrected.

E

The equilibrium quantity is always greater than the socially optimal quantity.

Understanding the Answer

Let's break down why this is correct

Answer

Positive externalities occur when a product or service benefits people who are not directly involved in the action, like when someone gets vaccinated and helps protect others from disease. In a market equilibrium without considering these externalities, the benefits to society are not fully reflected in the price of the good or service. This means that the market might produce less of the good than is socially optimal, leading to a situation where fewer people benefit from the positive effects. For example, if a company builds a park, the park benefits the community, but the company may not receive enough financial return to justify building it. Therefore, recognizing positive externalities can lead to better decisions, like government support or incentives, to encourage more of these beneficial activities.

Detailed Explanation

Positive externalities mean that benefits spill over to others. Other options are incorrect because Some might think that positive externalities mean goods are made too much; It's a common mistake to think private benefits equal social benefits.

Key Concepts

Market Equilibrium
Positive Externalities
Government Intervention
Topic

Analyzing Market Equilibrium with Externalities

Difficulty

easy level question

Cognitive Level

understand

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