1. Discuss the situation facing firms in competitive markets. Why is it said that they are "price takers" and unable to influence the market price? If firms in competitive markets cannot effectively choose the price of their output, what do they decide? What determines the level of output that they produce? Next, think of or research some examples of firms that might decide to shut down in the short run. What do you think would make them choose this course of action? Discuss the industry and firms in it, along with the conditions prompting the potential shutdowns. Could seasonality in demand be a potential factor? Explain. What is the exact price for the product that is referred to as the "shut down" point in the short run? When would a seller possibly decide to exit the industry over the long run? What should product price be compared to when assessing whether there is a profit or loss? Can you think of any examples of declining industries? Explain. 2. What if the information regarding market demand and market supply is conveyed in equations rather than tables? Practice how you would find equilibrium in a competitive market using equations for demand and supply. Suppose in a competitive market the market demand can be represented as follows: P = 10 - Q (and thus Q = 10 - P) and that market supply can be represented as follows: P = Q Using the fact that at equilibrium the quantity demanded equals the quantity supplied, find the equilibrium price and quantity in this market