college students purchase many more energy drinks during finals week than during the rest of the semester

shift of the demand curve or movement along the demand curve

The increase in the purchase of energy drinks during finals week compared to the rest of the semester suggests a change in demand. This change can be explained by two possibilities: a shift of the demand curve or a movement along the demand curve.

If the increase in demand for energy drinks during finals week is caused by factors other than price, such as increased stress levels or long study hours, it would indicate a shift of the demand curve. This means that at each price level, college students are willing to buy more energy drinks during finals week compared to the rest of the semester. In this case, the entire demand curve would shift to the right.

On the other hand, if the change in demand is only due to a change in price, such as a temporary discount or promotion during finals week, it would indicate a movement along the demand curve. College students, in response to the lower price, would buy more energy drinks during that particular period.

To determine whether it is a shift in the demand curve or a movement along it, we need to consider factors beyond just the quantity demanded. Analyzing trends in price, tastes and preferences, income levels, advertising, and external factors like stress levels during finals week can help differentiate between a shift in demand or a movement along the demand curve.