Question : If the income elasticity of demand for a good is negative, the good is considered to be:
Option 1: A normal good
Option 2: An inferior good
Option 3: A luxury good
Option 4: A necessity good
Correct Answer: An inferior good
Solution :
The correct answer is (b) An inferior good
When the income elasticity of demand for a good is negative, it indicates that as income increases, the quantity demanded for that good decreases. This is typically observed for goods that are considered lower-quality or less desirable compared to other alternatives as consumers' incomes rise. Such goods are referred to as inferior goods. Examples of inferior goods include generic store-brand products or low-cost substitutes for higher-quality goods.