Meaning of Supply
Supply is a fundamental concept in economics, defined as the quantity of a commodity that a seller is willing and able to offer for sale at a given price and time. Understanding supply is crucial for comprehending how markets function and how they respond to changes in demand. The relationship between price and quantity supplied is particularly essential; this is encapsulated in the # Law of Supply, which states that, all else being equal, when the price of a commodity rises, the supply also rises, and vice versa. This creates a direct relationship between price and quantity supplied.
Factors impacting supply include:
1. Price of the commodity - The immediate determinant of supply.
2. Prices of related goods - This can affect overall market supply.
3. Cost of production - Higher costs may reduce the quantity supplied.
4. Technology used - Improved technology can increase supply.
5. Government policies - Taxes or subsidies can incentivize or disincentivize supply.
6. Natural conditions - Factors like weather can greatly influence supply.
7. Future expectations - Expectations of future prices can shape current supply decisions.
Understanding these elements helps analyze market dynamics and predict how supply will react to changes in price and external factors.