Answer: -0.5
Explanation:
From the information given,
Demand curve = P = 600 – Q
Supply curve = P = 0.5Q
Equilibrium = Qd = Qs
Therefore, 600 - Q = 0.5Q
600 = Q + 0.5Q
600 = 1.5Q
Q = 600/1.5
Q = 400
Since P = 600 - Q
P = 600 - 400
P = 200
Price elasticity will be:
= (dQ/dP) × (P/Q)
=(-1) × (200/400).
= -1 × 0.5
= -0.5
The price elasticity is -0.5