Suppose the demand for a particular product can be expressed as Q = 10

Suppose the demand for a particular product can be expressed as Q = 100/p. Calculate the total amount spent on this good when p = 10, 20, and 50. Can you make a generalization about the mathematical form of this demand curve and consumer behavior in this market?

What will be an ideal response?

ANSWER

In all cases, total expenditure equals 100 (since p * Q = 100). In general, a nonlinear demand curve of the form Q = A/p means that consumers wish to spend a total of A on this good regardless of its price.