Final answer:
A price ceiling is characterized by a price set below the current (or equilibrium) market price of the good. It leads to a shortage or excess demand.
Step-by-step explanation:
A price ceiling is characterized by a price set below the current (or equilibrium) market price of the good. It is a legal maximum price that can be charged for a product or service. When a price ceiling is set below the equilibrium price, it leads to a shortage or excess demand because the quantity demanded is greater than the quantity supplied.