How do you calculate Price Elasticity of Demand

Price Elasticity of Demand (PED) calculates the responsiveness/sensitivity of the quantity demanded of a good or service to a change in price. 

The calculation for PED is therefore: the percentage change in quantity demanded divided by the percentage change in price.

If the resulting number is between 0 and 1, demand is inelastic, in other words it doesn't respond proportionally to a change in price. Inelastic goods often lack obvious substitute goods. Examples include petrol or salt.

If the resulting number is 1 or above then demand is elastic, in other words it responds more than proportionately to a change in price. Elastic goods often have clear substitutes or are non-essential. For example electronics such as TV's and phones could be described as having an elastic PED.

DO
Answered by Daniel O. Economics tutor

16863 Views

See similar Economics A Level tutors

Related Economics A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the difference between accounting and economic profit?


What is the Price Elasticity of Demand?


What are the assumptions of perfect competition?


Do subsidies to producers always correct market failure? As an essay style question.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning