Own price elasticity of demand refers to the degree to which the quantity demanded of a good or service changes in response to a change in its own price. In other words, it measures the sensitivity of consumers to changes in the price of the product they are purchasing.
An example of own price elasticity of demand can be seen in the market for coffee. Let's say that the price of coffee increases by 10%. If the quantity of coffee demanded decreases by more than 10%, then the own price elasticity of demand for coffee is said to be elastic. On the other hand, if the quantity of coffee demanded decreases by less than 10%, then the own price elasticity of demand for coffee is said to be inelastic.
One factor that determines the own price elasticity of demand for a good or service is the availability of substitutes. For example, if coffee is the only source of caffeine for a consumer, then the demand for coffee may be more inelastic, as the consumer may be less willing to reduce their consumption due to the lack of alternatives. However, if there are many substitutes for coffee, such as tea or soda, then the demand for coffee may be more elastic, as the consumer may be more willing to switch to a substitute if the price of coffee increases.
Another factor that can impact the own price elasticity of demand is the proportion of a consumer's budget that is allocated to the good or service. If the good or service represents a small portion of the consumer's budget, then the demand may be more elastic, as the consumer may be more sensitive to price changes. However, if the good or service represents a large portion of the consumer's budget, then the demand may be more inelastic, as the consumer may be less sensitive to price changes.
In conclusion, the own price elasticity of demand measures the sensitivity of consumers to changes in the price of a good or service. The availability of substitutes and the proportion of a consumer's budget allocated to the good or service are two factors that can impact the own price elasticity of demand. Understanding the own price elasticity of demand can be useful for businesses when setting prices for their products and making pricing decisions.