Which of the following is a simpler medium of exchange than bartering?

• A. Land
• B. Money
• C. Government bonds
• D. Gold bars

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of a medium of exchange: it is an item widely accepted in trade for goods and services, facilitating transactions by eliminating the inefficiencies of barter.
2. Recall that bartering involves directly exchanging goods or services, which can be complicated due to the need for a double coincidence of wants (both parties must want what the other offers).
3. Evaluate each option in terms of how easily it can be used to facilitate trade: land, government bonds, gold bars, and money.
4. Recognize that money is specifically designed to be a simpler and more efficient medium of exchange because it is widely accepted, divisible, durable, and portable.
5. Conclude that among the options, money is the simplest medium of exchange compared to bartering, as it overcomes the limitations of direct trade.