Equilibrium Price Equation:
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The equilibrium price equation calculates the market price where quantity demanded equals quantity supplied. It is derived from linear demand and supply functions and represents the price point where market forces are balanced.
The calculator uses the equilibrium price equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation solves for the price where the demand function Qd = a - bP equals the supply function Qs = c + dP.
Details: Calculating equilibrium price is fundamental in microeconomics for understanding market dynamics, predicting price movements, and analyzing the effects of economic policies on market outcomes.
Tips: Enter the coefficients from your linear demand and supply functions. Ensure the denominator (b + d) is not zero, as this would make the equation undefined.
Q1: What do the coefficients a, b, c, and d represent?
A: In the demand function Qd = a - bP, 'a' is the maximum demand when price is zero, and 'b' is the rate at which demand decreases as price increases. In the supply function Qs = c + dP, 'c' is the supply when price is zero, and 'd' is the rate at which supply increases with price.
Q2: What if the denominator (b + d) equals zero?
A: The equation becomes undefined. This occurs when the slopes of demand and supply curves are equal in magnitude but opposite in sign, making the lines parallel and never intersecting.
Q3: Can this calculator handle non-linear functions?
A: No, this calculator is specifically designed for linear demand and supply functions. Non-linear functions require more complex mathematical methods to find equilibrium.
Q4: How accurate is this equilibrium price calculation?
A: The calculation is mathematically precise for the given linear functions. However, real-world markets may have additional factors that affect the actual equilibrium price.
Q5: What units are used for the equilibrium price?
A: The equilibrium price will be in the same units as the price variable used in your original demand and supply functions (typically currency units per unit of quantity).