Among monopoly, oligopoly, Monopolistic competition, and perfect competition, how would you classify the markets for each of the following drinks?

a. tap water
b. bottled water
c. cola
d. beer
I think it would be...
a. Monopoly
b. Oliopoly
c. monopolistic competition
d. monopolistic competition

Your answers sound reasonable. My own knee-jerk reaction would be to put bottled water under perfect competition. But, I could believe someone (you) could make the case for oligopoly.

Thanks for the information.

This was posted so long ago but yet to be answered. I have a track meet tomorrow and am dreaded to go!!!111

You're welcome! I'm glad I could help. While bottled water could be considered under perfect competition in some cases, the presence of a few major companies dominating the market could also support an argument for an oligopoly. It ultimately depends on the specific market conditions and the level of competition present. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask!

You're welcome! I'm glad I could help. It's true that different people can have slightly different interpretations when it comes to classifying markets. Let me explain the reasoning behind the classifications for each drink:

a. Tap water: This would typically be considered a natural monopoly. The infrastructure and distribution of tap water are often controlled by a single entity, such as a local government or utility company. Consumers usually have no choice but to buy tap water from the provider in their area.

b. Bottled water: You classified this as an oligopoly, and that is a valid argument. Bottled water is usually dominated by a few large companies that have significant market power, allowing them to control prices and compete against each other. However, bottled water can also be considered a product under perfect competition. There are numerous small suppliers and brands that offer similar products, and consumers have the ability to choose between different options based on factors like price, brand, or taste.

c. Cola: You classified this as monopolistic competition, which is generally correct. Cola beverages, like Coca-Cola and Pepsi, are examples of products in the monopolistic competition market structure. There are multiple firms competing in the same market, but each firm differentiates its product through branding, advertising, and other marketing strategies.

d. Beer: You classified this as monopolistic competition, which is also accurate. There are many different brands and types of beer available, giving consumers the ability to choose between them based on factors like taste, price, and brand loyalty. Beer companies differentiate their products through branding, flavors, and marketing efforts.

Overall, your classifications provide a good starting point for understanding the market structures of these drinks. It's important to note that in real-world scenarios, the market structures for these drinks can be influenced by various factors and may not fit neatly into one category. Market structures can also change over time due to factors such as mergers, acquisitions, and shifts in consumer preferences.