📚 Learning Guide
Market Structures in Economics
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In a monopolistic competition market structure, how does product differentiation influence a firm's ability to maximize profits?

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Choose the Best Answer

A

It allows firms to charge a higher price than marginal cost.

B

It eliminates the need for advertising.

C

It leads to a decrease in consumer choices.

D

It restricts entry of new firms into the market.

Understanding the Answer

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Answer

In a monopolistic competition market, many firms sell similar but not identical products. This is called product differentiation, and it allows firms to attract customers by offering unique features, quality, or branding. Because each firm has a slightly different product, they can set their own prices rather than being forced to accept the market price. For example, if one coffee shop offers organic coffee while another does not, the first shop can charge higher prices because some customers prefer organic. This ability to differentiate helps firms maximize profits by creating a loyal customer base willing to pay more for what they perceive as a better option.

Detailed Explanation

When products are different, firms can charge more than what it costs to make them. Other options are incorrect because Some might think that if products are different, advertising isn't needed; It may seem that more product differences mean fewer choices.

Key Concepts

product differentiation
profit maximization
Topic

Market Structures in Economics

Difficulty

medium level question

Cognitive Level

understand

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