Final answer:
The equilibrium price and quantity occur where supply and demand intersect. If the price is below equilibrium, excess demand exists. If the price is above equilibrium, excess supply exists.
Step-by-step explanation:
The equilibrium price and equilibrium quantity occur where the supply and demand curves cross. The equilibrium occurs where the quantity demanded is equal to the quantity supplied. If the price is below the equilibrium level, then the quantity demanded will exceed the quantity supplied. Excess demand or a shortage will exist. If the price is above the equilibrium level, then the quantity supplied will exceed the quantity demanded. Excess supply or a surplus will exist. In either case, economic pressures will push the price toward the equilibrium level.