In a market system, the allocation of scarce goods involves the consideration of:

• A. fixed prices set by authorities
• B. opportunity costs and individual preferences
• C. unlimited resources
• D. only government regulations

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of allocation of scarce goods: In microeconomics, scarce goods are limited in supply, so the market must decide how to distribute them efficiently among individuals or groups.
2. Recognize that fixed prices set by authorities can influence allocation but do not fully determine it, as prices are one mechanism among others.
3. Recall that opportunity cost refers to the value of the next best alternative foregone when making a choice, which is crucial in deciding how scarce resources are allocated.
4. Consider individual preferences, which reflect the desires and choices of consumers, playing a key role in determining demand and thus allocation in a market system.
5. Conclude that the allocation of scarce goods in a market system primarily involves weighing opportunity costs and individual preferences, rather than relying solely on fixed prices, unlimited resources, or government regulations.