UPSC Prelims 1998·GS1·economy·basic concepts

A consumer is said to be in equilibrium, if

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  1. Ahe is able to fulfil his need with a given level of incomeCorrect
  2. Bhe is able to live in full comforts with a given level of income
  3. Che can fulfil his needs without consumption of certain items
  4. Dhe is able to locate new sources of income

Explanation

In economics, consumer equilibrium is a state where a consumer derives maximum satisfaction or utility from their expenditure. It occurs when a consumer, given their fixed level of income and the prevailing market prices of goods, allocates their spending in a way that fulfills their needs and wants optimally. Option A is correct because it describes the situation where a consumer manages to maximize their utility and satisfy their requirements within the constraints of their specific budget. It signifies a point of balance where the consumer has no incentive to change their consumption pattern unless their income or the prices of goods change. Options B, C, and D are incorrect as they either refer to subjective levels of luxury, arbitrary restriction of consumption, or the acquisition of more wealth, none of which define the technical state of equilibrium.
economy: A consumer is said to be in equilibrium, if

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