Learning Path
Question & Answer1
Understand Question2
Review Options3
Learn Explanation4
Explore TopicChoose the Best Answer
A
Excess supply
B
Increased consumer surplus
C
Decreased production costs
D
Perfect competition
Understanding the Answer
Let's break down why this is correct
Answer
Market equilibrium in a perfectly competitive industry occurs when the quantity of goods supplied equals the quantity demanded at a certain price, known as the equilibrium price. Similarly, a price floor, which is a minimum price set by the government, affects the market by preventing prices from falling below that level. When a price floor is set above the equilibrium price, it can lead to a surplus of goods because producers want to supply more at the higher price, but consumers are not willing to buy as much. For example, if the government sets a price floor on milk that is higher than the equilibrium price, farmers might produce more milk, but consumers may buy less, resulting in unsold milk. Thus, just as market equilibrium balances supply and demand, a price floor disrupts that balance, leading to excess supply.
Detailed Explanation
A price floor sets a minimum price. Other options are incorrect because Some might think a price floor helps consumers by lowering prices; People might believe that a price floor lowers production costs.
Key Concepts
Market equilibrium
Price floors
Supply and demand
Topic
Long Response Questions in AP Economics
Difficulty
medium level question
Cognitive Level
understand
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