📚 Learning Guide
Market Structures in Economics
easy

A local farmer markets his potatoes at a price lower than the market equilibrium price. What is the likely outcome in this perfectly competitive market for potatoes?

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Choose the Best Answer

A

The quantity demanded will exceed the quantity supplied, leading to a shortage.

B

The quantity supplied will increase, but the quantity demanded will decrease.

C

The market will reach equilibrium as firms adjust their prices.

D

The farmer will be unable to sell any potatoes at that price.

Understanding the Answer

Let's break down why this is correct

Answer

When a farmer sells his potatoes at a price lower than the market equilibrium price, it means he is offering them for less than what most buyers are willing to pay. This will likely lead to an increase in demand for his potatoes since more consumers will find them affordable. At the same time, other farmers might not be able to sell their potatoes at that lower price, which could lead to a shortage in the market. For example, if the equilibrium price for potatoes is $2 per pound and the farmer sells them for $1. 50, more customers will buy from him, but other farmers might reduce their supply because they can't compete.

Detailed Explanation

When the price is lower than the market equilibrium, more people want to buy potatoes. Other options are incorrect because Some might think that a lower price means farmers will supply more; It's a common mistake to think prices will always adjust quickly.

Key Concepts

Perfect Competition
Market Equilibrium
Supply and Demand
Topic

Market Structures in Economics

Difficulty

easy level question

Cognitive Level

understand

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