Final answer:
An increase in demand due to a change in consumer preferences typically leads to an increase in both the equilibrium price and equilibrium quantity of the good or service.
Step-by-step explanation:
When consumer preferences change and increase the demand for a good or service, the outcome in the market is a shift in the demand curve to the right. Drawing on the principles of supply and demand, as demand increases, producers can sell more of the good or service at a higher price, leading to an increase in both the equilibrium price and equilibrium quantity. The correct answer to the student's question is: a) Equilibrium price increases, quantity increases.
Here's a brief overview of the effects on equilibrium price and quantity for each scenario:
- Increase in demand: Leads to a higher equilibrium price and quantity.
- Decrease in demand: Leads to a lower equilibrium price and quantity.
- Increase in supply: Leads to a lower equilibrium price and a higher quantity.
- Decrease in supply: Leads to a higher equilibrium price and a lower quantity.