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Inflationary Gaps and Unemployment
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In the context of inflationary gaps, what is the likely impact on unemployment and inflation when the economy operates above its potential output?

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Choose the Best Answer

A

Unemployment decreases while inflation increases due to higher demand.

B

Unemployment increases and inflation decreases due to reduced consumer spending.

C

Unemployment remains stable as inflation rises, indicating a balanced economy.

D

Unemployment decreases while inflation remains unchanged, reflecting full employment.

Understanding the Answer

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Answer

When the economy operates above its potential output, it creates what is known as an inflationary gap. This situation means that businesses are producing more goods and services than the economy can sustainably support. As a result, demand for labor increases, which typically leads to lower unemployment because more workers are needed to meet the high demand. However, this increased production can also drive up prices, leading to inflation as businesses raise prices to manage higher costs and demand. For example, if a factory operates at full capacity and hires more workers, it might raise the prices of its products to cover the costs of paying those new employees, resulting in higher inflation alongside lower unemployment.

Detailed Explanation

When the economy is doing really well, more people have jobs. Other options are incorrect because This answer suggests that people spend less when the economy is strong, which is not true; This option says unemployment stays the same while prices rise.

Key Concepts

Inflationary Gaps
Unemployment
Phillips Curve
Topic

Inflationary Gaps and Unemployment

Difficulty

medium level question

Cognitive Level

understand

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