Final answer:
The mismatch between the demand for high-definition televisions and the insufficient manufacturing capacities when they were first introduced reflects the external environmental characteristic of supply constraints. Over time, as production increased, the prices of HDTVs decreased, enhancing their accessibility.
Step-by-step explanation:
When high-definition television sets (HDTVs) were first introduced in the market, the scenario of them being much more expensive due to insufficient factories to keep up with the demand illustrates the external environmental characteristic of supply constraints. This situation indicates that the technological innovation of HDTVs generated a high consumer demand, but the manufacturing capacity at the time was inadequate to meet this demand, leading to higher prices. As production facilities expanded and became more efficient, prices would tend to decrease, making HDTVs more accessible to a wider range of consumers.
Moreover, this example reflects broader economic principles, such as market adaptations to technological advancements, competition among manufacturers, and the implications of environmental costs in the production and disposal of technology products. The sustainability of HDTVs, with their long-term value and the potential for repair versus replacement, also highlights the shift towards more durable goods and a move away from a disposable economy.