What are the determinants of price elasticity of supply?

Economics Elasticity Of Demand Questions Medium



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What are the determinants of price elasticity of supply?

The determinants of price elasticity of supply include:

1. Availability of inputs: The ease with which inputs can be obtained and the availability of alternative inputs affect the elasticity of supply. If inputs are readily available and can be easily substituted, the supply will be more elastic.

2. Time period: The elasticity of supply tends to be higher in the long run compared to the short run. In the short run, producers may have limited capacity to adjust their production levels, making supply less elastic. However, in the long run, producers can adjust their production processes and capacity, making supply more elastic.

3. Production flexibility: The ability of producers to switch between different products or adjust their production processes affects the elasticity of supply. If producers can easily switch between products or adjust their production methods, the supply will be more elastic.

4. Storage capacity: The ability to store and hold inventory affects the elasticity of supply. If producers have sufficient storage capacity, they can hold inventory during periods of low demand and release it during periods of high demand, making supply more elastic.

5. Spare capacity: The amount of spare capacity or unused resources available to producers affects the elasticity of supply. If producers have excess capacity, they can quickly increase production in response to changes in demand, making supply more elastic.

6. Barriers to entry: The presence of barriers to entry, such as high start-up costs or government regulations, affects the elasticity of supply. If barriers to entry are high, new producers may find it difficult to enter the market and increase supply, making supply less elastic.

7. Nature of the product: The nature of the product itself can influence the elasticity of supply. Perishable goods, for example, may have a more inelastic supply as they cannot be stored for long periods, while durable goods may have a more elastic supply as they can be produced and stored over time.

These determinants collectively determine the responsiveness of supply to changes in price, and understanding them is crucial in analyzing the elasticity of supply in different market situations.