Learning Path
Question & Answer1
Understand Question2
Review Options3
Learn Explanation4
Explore TopicChoose the Best Answer
A
Negative externalities lead to overproduction of goods.
B
The private cost of production is always equal to the social cost.
C
Government intervention may be needed to correct market inefficiencies.
D
Negative externalities can result in deadweight loss in the economy.
E
Consumers are always aware of the external costs associated with their consumption.
Understanding the Answer
Let's break down why this is correct
Answer
Negative externalities occur when a person's or company's actions have harmful effects on others who are not involved in the decision. This can lead to market inefficiency because the true cost of a product or service is not reflected in its price. For example, if a factory pollutes a river while producing goods, the cost of pollution is not included in the price of those goods, making them seem cheaper than they really are. As a result, more of these goods are produced and consumed than is socially optimal, leading to overproduction and harm to the environment. Therefore, negative externalities can cause resources to be misallocated, resulting in a loss of overall economic well-being.
Detailed Explanation
Negative externalities affect how resources are used in the market. Other options are incorrect because Some might think negative externalities mean too many goods are made; It's a common mistake to think private costs and social costs are the same.
Key Concepts
Negative Externalities
Market Failure
Government Intervention
Topic
Negative Externalities and Market Failure
Difficulty
easy level question
Cognitive Level
understand
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