How did the shift toward mass production affect consumers?

• A. It made goods less accessible to the general public.
• B. It lowered the prices of goods, making them more affordable.
• C. It reduced the variety of products available to consumers.
• D. It increased the cost of goods due to higher production expenses.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of mass production: Mass production refers to the large-scale manufacturing of standardized products, often using assembly lines and mechanization to increase efficiency.
2. Recognize the effect of mass production on costs: By producing goods in large quantities, firms can achieve economies of scale, which means the average cost per unit decreases as output increases.
3. Analyze how lower production costs affect prices: When the cost to produce each unit falls, firms can reduce the selling price of goods while maintaining profitability.
4. Consider consumer impact: Lower prices make goods more affordable and accessible to a larger portion of the population, increasing consumer purchasing power.
5. Evaluate other options: Mass production typically does not increase costs or reduce accessibility; while it may affect variety, the primary consumer benefit is the reduction in prices.