Análise de Equilíbrio Parcial

Partial equilibrium analysis is used to study how prices and quantities are determined in a single market. It simplifies the analysis by assuming that conditions in all other markets remain constant or unaffected. Alfred Marshall formalized this approach in the late 19th century.

For example, consider the gasoline market. If the government imposes a gasoline tax, partial equilibrium analysis assesses the direct impact on gasoline prices, demand, and supply. 

This method identifies the new equilibrium price and quantity. This analysis assumes that changes in gasoline prices do not significantly impact related markets, such as car sales or public transportation.

This oversimplification can lead to misleading conclusions where interdependencies among markets are strong. 

For instance, a rise in gasoline prices might influence the demand for fuel-efficient cars or alternative transportation options. 

To account for these interconnections, economists use general equilibrium analysis, which studies how changes in one market impact others and the overall economy.