Which factor is least likely to affect price elasticity of demand?

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Prepare for the TAMU ECON202 Principles of Economics Exam 1 with detailed study guides and multiple choice questions. Boost your understanding and confidence ahead of exam day!

The factor that is least likely to affect price elasticity of demand is related to the time since the good's introduction. Price elasticity of demand measures how sensitive the quantity demanded of a good is to a change in its price. Several factors influence this sensitivity, but the duration for which a good has been available does not have a direct impact on the responsiveness of consumers to price changes.

The number of substitutes available plays a significant role; when consumers have many alternatives, they can easily switch if the price of one good rises, resulting in higher elasticity. The necessity of the good also significantly affects elasticity; necessities tend to have inelastic demand because consumers will buy them regardless of price changes. Lastly, consumer income level influences elasticity as well; luxury goods often have more elastic demand since consumers can forgo them more easily compared to essential goods. In contrast, the time since a product's introduction does not inherently change how consumers react to price changes. Instead, it's the characteristics of the good itself and the market conditions that shape this elasticity.