In: Economics
Even when there are no externalities in a market, a government may still tax a good such as petrol to earn revenue. Describe what happens to each of the surpluses (including total surplus) in the market for petrol when this occurs, and why.
What elasticity is the market for petrol likely to exhibit? Explain how elasticity influences the impact of the price change on total surplus.
The condition where there are no externalities, the government
implement tax on petrol. The surplus for petroleum increased. At
this time, the private participation in petroleum market increased.
Thus the production and supply increased. Some scientist explained
that positive externalities are good for the economy. Without the
influence or participation of a third party in the market can
increase the welfare and total surplus value in the economy. Petrol
considered s a necessary good. Government provide grants and
subsidies to the petroleum producers to reduce the cost and
production and also encourage the level of supply.
Demand for petrol is perfectly inelastic in nature; the price
having little influence on demand. The consumers are very sensitive
towards the changes in price. The short run price elasticity of
demand decrease in absolute value. If the prices are more volatile,
the responsiveness of the consumer is less. If the consumer
recognizes the volatility of price of petrol they will shift their
behaviour to change the petrol price.