Which of the following best describes a negative externality in consumption?

A negative externality in consumption occurs when someone’s use of a product or service negatively affects other people who are not directly involved in that consumption. For example, if someone smokes a cigarette in a public place, the smoke can harm the health of people nearby who did not choose to smoke. This means that while the smoker enjoys their cigarette, others suffer from the consequences without any compensation or choice in the matter. Negative externalities can lead to increased costs for society, such as higher healthcare expenses due to the health issues caused by secondhand smoke. Understanding this concept helps us see why governments may need to step in and regulate certain behaviors to protect the well-being of the community.