JAMB UTME - Economics - 2023
Question 1 Report
An increase in money income with constant price results in
Answer Details
When there is an increase in money income but the prices of goods and services remain the same, it will result in an outward shift in the budget line. To understand this, let's imagine a simple scenario where a person has a fixed amount of money to spend on different goods and services. This fixed amount of money represents their income. Now, if their income increases but the prices of goods and services they want to buy stay the same, they will have more money to spend. This means they can afford to buy more of each item. As a result, the budget line, which shows the different combinations of goods and services that can be bought with a given income, will shift outward. This indicates that they can now afford to buy a greater quantity of goods and services than before. Therefore, the correct answer is an "outward shift in the budget line" when there is an increase in money income with constant prices.
Question 2 Report
The theory of ............... was propounded by ..................
Answer Details
The theory of absolute advantage was propounded by Adam Smith while the theory of comparative advantage was propounded by David Ricardo.
Question 3 Report
One major problem facing West African countries is
Answer Details
One of the major problem of West African state is the relation of West African states with the colonial masters.
Question 4 Report
The development of an economic hypothesis through intuition, insight, or logic is associated with
Answer Details
Normative economics is a perspective on economics that reflects normative, or ideologically prescriptive judgments toward economic development, investment projects, statements, and scenarios. It expresses ideological judgments about what may results in economic activity if public policy changes are made.
Question 5 Report
When a generalization is made based on observed facts, it is
Answer Details
When a generalization is made based on observed facts, it is called inductive reasoning. Inductive reasoning involves drawing conclusions from specific instances or examples to come up with a general statement or theory. This means that we observe a pattern or trend from the evidence we have and then make a generalization or inference based on that pattern. Inductive reasoning is different from deductive reasoning, which involves starting with a general statement or theory and then using it to predict or explain specific instances. In inductive reasoning, we start with specific observations and use them to make a broader generalization. It is important to note that while inductive reasoning can often lead to accurate conclusions, it is not always guaranteed to be correct. However, it is a common and useful method used in many fields such as science, sociology, and psychology.
Question 6 Report
The law of supply states that, other things being constant, as price increases
Answer Details
The law of supply states that, other things being constant, as price increases, the quantity supplied also increases. Basically, when the price of a good or service goes up, suppliers have an incentive to produce and sell more of that item. This is because they can earn more profit by selling at the higher price. So, as the price rises, suppliers are motivated to increase their production and offer more of the product to the market. On the other hand, when the price of a good or service decreases, suppliers have less motivation to produce and sell it. This is because they can earn less profit or even incur losses at the lower price. As a result, they will reduce the quantity supplied. In summary, the law of supply tells us that there is a direct relationship between price and quantity supplied. When the price increases, suppliers respond by increasing the quantity they are willing to supply to the market. Conversely, when the price decreases, the quantity supplied decreases.
Question 7 Report
The maximum price is
Answer Details
The maximum price is **P4**. To explain why, we need to understand that the prices are listed in ascending order. This means that **P1** is the lowest price and **P4** is the highest price. When we say "maximum price," we are referring to the highest possible price among the given options. In this case, **P4** is the highest price listed. Therefore, the maximum price is **P4**.
Question 8 Report
Real cost is
Answer Details
Real cost is the cost of producing a good or service, including the cost of all resources used and the cost of not employing those resources in alternative uses.
Question 9 Report
One major criticism of foreign aid to developing countries is that it
Answer Details
The loans help to create poverty, as capital that could have been invested instead was channeled into debt repayment.
Question 10 Report
------------- is NOT the cause of balance of payments (BOP) deficits in Nigeria
Answer Details
The causes of balance of payment deficit are: low level of agriculture, low level of technological development, inadequacies in export promotion strategy, political instability, poor social and economic infrastructure, servicing of huge external debts, existence of import dependent industries etc.
Question 11 Report
Answer Details
- Monetary policy is implemented by reducing the interest rates in the economy in order to increase the supply of money to enhance growth.
- The fiscal policy is implemented by the reduction of taxes and increasing government spending in order to boost demand.
- Policymakers may choose to implement a stabilization policy to close the recessionary gap and increase real GDP.
Question 12 Report
Economics is often described as a science because it
Answer Details
Economics is often described as a science because it uses scientific methods to explain observed phenomena. Just like other scientific fields, economics relies on gathering data, formulating hypotheses, and conducting experiments to test these hypotheses. However, unlike fields such as physics or chemistry, economics does not rely on laboratory experiments or controlled experiments. Instead, economists analyze real-world data to understand how individuals, businesses, and governments make choices and interact with each other. They use statistical methods to analyze this data and make predictions about how changes in various factors will affect economic outcomes. While it is difficult to accurately predict the behavior of individual human beings, economics aims to make accurate predictions on aggregate behavior, or how groups of people will respond to changes in factors such as prices, taxes, or policies. These predictions are based on the analysis of historical data and the use of economic models, which simplify complex economic interactions. In summary, economics is considered a science because it employs scientific methods to explain observed phenomena, although it does not rely on laboratory experiments or controlled experiments. It uses data analysis, hypothesis testing, and economic models to understand and predict how individuals and groups make economic decisions and interact with each other.
Question 13 Report
A ............ in the price of the domestic currency in terms of a foreign currency is referred to as .............
Answer Details
Currency depreciation is a fall in the value of a currency in a floating exchange rate system. Therefore, a decrease in the price of the domestic currency in terms of a foreign currency is referred to as depreciation.
Question 14 Report
Which of the following is NOT one of the characteristics of developing countries?
Answer Details
Mono- product economy ( an economy that produces one product or commodity) is not a characteristics of developing country. The characteristics are: high level of illiteracy, dependence on agriculture, low savings and investment, low standard of living, population explosion, high death rate etc.
Question 15 Report
Which of the following is an example of free good?
Answer Details
An example of a free good is water in the ocean.
A free good is a good that is available in unlimited supply and does not require any payment or exchange to obtain it.
In the case of water in the ocean, it is freely available and accessible to anyone. It is not owned by anyone and does not require any payment to access or use it. Therefore, it can be considered a free good.
On the other hand, free education, dinner you did not pay for, and your rented apartment are not examples of free goods.
Free education typically refers to education that is provided without direct payment by the student. While it may be free for the student, someone is still paying for it, such as the government or private institutions.
A dinner that you did not pay for may seem free to you, but someone, such as a friend or a host, is still paying for it. The cost of that dinner is borne by someone else, even if it is not you.
Similarly, a rented apartment is not a free good because it involves a transaction where you pay for the use of the apartment. You enter into a contractual agreement with the landlord and pay rent in exchange for living in the apartment.
Question 16 Report
If a business' total economic cost of producing 10,000 units of a product is N750,000 and this output is sold to consumers for N1,000,000, then the firm would earn
Answer Details
Economic profit = Total revenue(Output) - Opportunity cost of input
= 1,000,000 - 750,000
= 250,000
Question 17 Report
All of the following describes conditions necessary for existence of a perfect market EXCEPT
Answer Details
A perfect market is a theoretical concept that represents an idealized scenario where certain conditions are met. In this market, there is an equilibrium between supply and demand, and no single buyer or seller has the power to influence prices. In order for a perfect market to exist, there are several conditions that need to be met. These conditions include: - **Lack of homogeneity of goods**: In a perfect market, goods are assumed to be identical and indistinguishable from one another. This means that there are no variations in quality, features, or brand identity. Buyers are indifferent to which seller they purchase from since the goods are the same. - **Perfect knowledge**: Another crucial condition is that all buyers and sellers in the market have access to complete and accurate information. This means they know the current market prices, availability of goods, and all relevant factors influencing the buying and selling decisions. No hidden or asymmetric information exists that could give an advantage to any market participant. - **Large buyers and sellers**: A perfect market assumes that there are a significant number of buyers and sellers in the market. This ensures that no single buyer or seller has enough market power to influence prices or control the market conditions. Each participant is a price taker, meaning they accept the prevailing market price and cannot change it on their own. - **Portability of goods**: The final condition for a perfect market is the ease with which goods can be transported from one place to another. This means that there are no significant barriers to trade, such as transportation costs, tariffs, or restrictions. Goods can freely move between buyers and sellers, allowing for efficient market operations. Now, looking at the given options, we need to identify the one that does NOT describe a condition necessary for the existence of a perfect market. And that would be **"lack of homogeneity of goods"**. In a perfect market, goods are assumed to be identical and indistinguishable. This means that there are no variations in quality or features. Homogeneity is a vital characteristic of a perfect market, so the lack of it would hinder the existence of a perfect market. In summary, the conditions required for a perfect market are: perfect knowledge, large buyers and sellers, and portability of goods. While homogeneity of goods is a necessary condition for a perfect market, it is not described in the options as a condition necessary for the existence of a perfect market.
Question 18 Report
In a two by two model of international trade, it is assumed that
Answer Details
In a two by two model of international trade, it is assumed that **both countries could gain from trade at the same time, but the volume of the gains depends on terms of trade**. This means that both countries can benefit from engaging in trade with each other. Trade allows both countries to specialize in producing and exporting the goods in which they have a comparative advantage, while importing goods that they are less efficient at producing. This leads to increased efficiency and overall economic gains for both countries. However, the volume of the gains from trade depends on the terms of trade between the two countries. The terms of trade refer to the ratio at which the countries exchange their goods. If one country has a higher bargaining power or can produce goods at a lower cost, they may negotiate more favorable terms of trade, leading to a larger volume of gains for that country. On the other hand, if the terms of trade are less favorable, the volume of gains for both countries may be smaller. In summary, while both countries can benefit from trade, the extent of the gains will vary depending on the terms of trade negotiated between them.
Question 19 Report
.............is presently used in Nigeria to measure inflation
Answer Details
The measure that is presently used in Nigeria to measure inflation is the Consumer Price Index (CPI). The CPI is a commonly used indicator worldwide to track changes in the cost of living over time.
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) measures the average price changes of a basket of goods and services typically purchased by households in a specific country or region. It reflects the price movements of essential items such as food, housing, transportation, healthcare, education, and many other goods and services that people consume regularly.
The CPI is calculated by collecting price data for various items in the basket and assigning them weights based on their relative importance in household spending. The prices are then compared to a base period, which is usually a specific year. The percentage change in the CPI from the base period indicates the rate of inflation or deflation.
In Nigeria, the CPI is used to monitor and analyze changes in the cost of goods and services, allowing policymakers and economists to assess the impact on consumers' purchasing power and make informed decisions. It helps in determining the effectiveness of government policies, evaluating the performance of the economy, and adjusting wages and prices.
By tracking the CPI, the government can identify if there is an increase in the general level of prices, indicating inflation, or a decrease, indicating deflation. This information helps in formulating monetary and fiscal policies to control inflation rates and maintain price stability.
Overall, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) is the measure currently used in Nigeria to gauge inflation and is crucial in understanding how the cost of living changes over time, impacting the economy and the daily lives of individuals and businesses.
Question 20 Report
The "velocity" of money is
Answer Details
Velocity of money is the total amount of money in circulation in an economy. It is calculated as Velocity of money = GDP/Money Supply
Question 21 Report
From the graph above, the consumer is at equilibrium at point
Answer Details
Based on the graph, the consumer is at equilibrium at point k.
Equilibrium is when the quantity demanded by the consumer is equal to the quantity supplied by the market. At equilibrium, there is no shortage or surplus of the goods or services.
Point k on the graph represents the intersection of the demand curve (D) and the supply curve (S). At this point, the quantity demanded (Qd) and the quantity supplied (Qs) are equal.
If the consumer is at any other point on the graph, either to the left or to the right of point k, there would be either a shortage or a surplus of the goods or services. This would mean that the demand and supply are not in balance and the market is not at equilibrium.
Therefore, point k is the correct answer as it represents the position where the consumer is at equilibrium.
Question 22 Report
The diagram above represent
Answer Details
The diagram above represents the production possibility curve.
The production possibility curve shows the different combinations of goods and services that can be produced given the available resources and technology.
On the curve, each point represents a specific combination of goods and services that can be produced. Points on the curve are considered efficient because all available resources are fully utilized. Points inside the curve represent inefficient production because resources are not fully utilized. Points outside the curve represent combinations that are currently unattainable given the available resources and technology.
In summary, the production possibility curve helps us understand the trade-offs and limitations in production based on available resources and technology. It is a visual representation of the production possibilities in an economy.
Question 23 Report
Overpopulation is caused by
Answer Details
The causes of overpopulation are: falling mortality rate, underutilized contraception, lack of female education etc.
Question 24 Report
If demand function for a product is Qd = 30 - 4P, and the price and quantity of products is 4 and 14 respectively. What is the price elasticity of demand for the product?
Answer Details
Q = 14, P = 4
Qd = 30 - 4p
∆q/∆p = - 4
Ed = ΔqΔp×pq
= - 4 x 4/14
= Ed = -1.14
since price elasticity is positive, then Ed = 1.14
Question 25 Report
Part-time workers who desire full-time employment are:
Answer Details
Part-time workers who desire full-time employment are classified as underemployed and contribute to the unemployment statistic.
Underemployment refers to a situation where individuals are working fewer hours than they would like or in jobs that do not utilize their skills and qualifications fully. In this case, part-time workers who desire full-time employment are considered underemployed because they are not able to secure the desired amount of work hours.
These underemployed workers contribute to the unemployment statistic because they are actively seeking additional work hours to meet their employment needs. They are considered part of the labor force because they are willing and available to work more hours, but they have not been able to find full-time employment.
It is important to note that not all underemployed workers contribute to the unemployment statistic. Some may choose to work part-time for personal reasons, such as family responsibilities or pursuing education. These individuals, although underemployed, are not actively seeking additional work hours and therefore do not contribute to the unemployment statistic.
However, in the case of individuals who are part-time workers and desire full-time employment, their underemployment status reflects the inadequacy of available job opportunities. They increase the count of unemployed individuals because they are willing and actively searching for additional work.
It is worth mentioning that cyclical unemployment is a different type of unemployment. It occurs when there is a downturn in the economy, causing a decrease in overall demand for goods and services, and subsequently, a decrease in the demand for labor. Cyclical unemployment is not directly related to the part-time workers' desire for full-time employment.
Question 26 Report
A persistence rise in the prices of inputs will lead to
Answer Details
A persistence rise in the prices of inputs, such as raw materials or labor, can lead to **cost push inflation**. Cost push inflation occurs when the increased costs of production for firms are passed on to consumers in the form of higher prices for goods and services. This can happen when the prices of inputs used in production rise over a sustained period. When input costs increase, businesses often have two options: absorb the increased costs and accept lower profit margins, or pass on the higher costs to consumers by raising prices. If firms choose to raise prices, it can lead to a general increase in the overall price level in the economy. Here's a simple example to help illustrate this concept: Let's say there is a town where the main industry is manufacturing shoes. The cost of leather, which is a key input in shoe production, starts to rise due to factors like high demand or scarcity. In response, shoe manufacturers have to pay more for leather, and this increases their production costs. To maintain their profit margins, the manufacturers decide to increase the prices of shoes they sell to retailers. Now, if the retailers decide to pass on the higher costs to the consumers, the prices of shoes will increase. This can create a ripple effect throughout the economy because consumers will have to spend more money on shoes, reducing their purchasing power for other goods and services. As a result, the overall price level in the economy increases, and this is what we call cost push inflation. It is important to note that cost push inflation is different from demand pull inflation. Demand pull inflation occurs when there is an increase in aggregate demand, leading to an excess of demand over supply. In contrast, cost push inflation is driven by increased production costs. Hyperinflation, on the other hand, is an extreme form of inflation characterized by an uncontrollable increase in prices. It is typically caused by factors like rapid money supply growth or loss of confidence in the currency. Stagflation refers to a situation where there is a combination of high inflation and high unemployment, typically accompanied by low economic growth. This can occur when an economy experiences a supply-side shock, such as a significant increase in the prices of key inputs. In summary, a persistence rise in the prices of inputs can lead to cost push inflation, as firms pass on the increased costs to consumers by raising prices.
Question 27 Report
..................... is the highest body in ECOWAS organogram
Answer Details
The highest body in the ECOWAS organogram is the Authority of Head of State and Government. This body consists of the presidents and heads of government of the member states in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
The Authority of Head of State and Government is responsible for making major decisions and policies for the entire ECOWAS community. They meet regularly to discuss and address regional issues, such as political stability, economic cooperation, and security.
This body holds the highest level of political power in ECOWAS and has the authority to make decisions that affect the entire organization. It plays a crucial role in promoting regional integration and cooperation among member states.
To sum up, the Authority of Head of State and Government is the most important body in the ECOWAS organogram as it consists of the leaders of the member states and is responsible for making key decisions and policies for the organization.
Question 28 Report
An increase in total production (real GDP) causes the demand for money to ______and the interest rate to _________
Answer Details
An increase in the real GDP will increase the demand for money and also the interest rate will also increase.
Question 29 Report
A tariff is a tax imposed on
Answer Details
A tariff is a tax that is imposed on imported goods. It is a financial charge that a government puts on goods that are being brought into the country. The purpose of a tariff is to protect domestic industries and businesses from competition from imported goods. By placing a tax on imported goods, it becomes more expensive for consumers to buy those goods, making them less appealing compared to domestic alternatives. This gives domestic industries a competitive advantage and helps support local businesses and jobs. So, the correct answer is imported goods.
Question 30 Report
The decision to consume more of one product under normal circumstances will apply
Answer Details
The decision to consume more of one product under normal circumstances will **result in less consumption of another product**. When we have a limited amount of resources, we can only allocate them in certain ways. This is true for both individuals and businesses. If we choose to consume more of one product, it means we are using some of our resources to produce more of that product. As a result, we have less resources available to produce or consume other products. Let's take an example to understand this concept better. Suppose you have $10 to spend on food, and you can either choose to buy more fruits or more vegetables. If you decide to buy more fruits, it means you are allocating more of your budget towards fruits. As a result, you will have less money left to buy vegetables. On the other hand, if you decide to buy more vegetables, it means you are allocating more of your budget towards vegetables, and you will have less money left to buy fruits. Similarly, in a market economy, if consumers decide to buy more of one product (like smartphones), the demand for that product increases. This leads to an increase in production and consumption of smartphones. However, the resources used to produce smartphones are limited. Therefore, the production of other products (like laptops or tablets) may decrease because fewer resources are available to produce them. In conclusion, when the decision is made to consume more of one product, it generally means that less of another product will be consumed. This is because resources are limited and need to be allocated among different options.
Question 31 Report
The rate of output per worker (or group of workers) per unit time is called
Answer Details
The correct answer is labour productivity.
Labour productivity refers to the rate at which output is produced by a worker or a group of workers in a given amount of time. It measures how efficiently and effectively workers are using their skills, time, and resources to produce goods or services.
To understand this concept, let's imagine a scenario where we have two workers producing bicycles. Worker A is able to produce 5 complete bicycles in one hour, while Worker B can only produce 3 complete bicycles in the same amount of time.
In this case, Worker A has a higher labour productivity because they are able to produce more output (bicycles) per unit of time (one hour) compared to Worker B.
Labour productivity is an essential measure for companies and economies because it directly impacts their profitability and competitiveness. Higher labour productivity means that more goods or services can be produced using the same amount of resources or in less time. This leads to lower costs per unit and can result in higher profits or the ability to lower prices for customers.
In summary, labour productivity is a measure of how efficiently workers are producing goods or services and is calculated by dividing the total output by the number of workers or the amount of time it took to produce that output.
Question 32 Report
Which of the following is the resultant effect of a fall in the profit margin of producers in an economy?
Answer Details
A fall in the profit margin of producers in an economy will likely result in an increase in unemployment.
When the profit margin of producers decreases, it means that they are earning less profit from their business activities. As a result, they may struggle to cover their costs, sustain their operations, or expand their businesses. To manage their financial situation, producers may need to cut costs, reduce production, or even close down their business altogether.
Reduced production and business closures lead to a decrease in job opportunities and an increase in unemployment. When businesses are not making enough profit, they may need to lay off workers or reduce their workforce in order to cut costs. This means that fewer people will have jobs, resulting in higher unemployment rates.
Additionally, a fall in profit margins can also deter new businesses from entering the market or existing businesses from expanding. This further limits job creation and can exacerbate the unemployment problem.
In summary, a fall in the profit margin of producers in an economy leads to reduced production, business closures, job cuts, and a decrease in job opportunities. Therefore, the most likely resultant effect of such a decline in profit margin is an increase in unemployment.
Question 33 Report
Public corporation is financed with
Answer Details
Public corporations are run by the government through the tax paid by the people. They are established by an act of parliament or decree and it is controlled by the board of directors, appointed by the government.
Question 34 Report
The part of income after tax that is not consumed is defined as
Answer Details
The part of income after tax that is not consumed is defined as saving. Saving refers to the portion of income that is not spent on immediate consumption and is instead put aside for future use.
When we receive our income, we typically have various expenses to cover, such as bills, groceries, and entertainment. After deducting these expenses and taxes, we are left with a certain amount of money. If we choose not to spend this remaining amount and instead keep it for later, we are saving that money.
Saving is important because it allows us to build up financial security and prepare for unexpected expenses or future goals. It can also be used for long-term investments, such as buying a house or planning for retirement.
In summary, saving is the part of our income that we choose to set aside rather than using it immediately for consumption.
Question 35 Report
Calculate the equilibrium level of national income (Y) where Y = C + I + G; C = 100 + 0.75Y; I = 50; G = 200
Answer Details
To calculate the equilibrium level of national income (Y), we start with the equation Y = C + I + G. In this equation, C represents consumption spending, I represents investment spending, and G represents government spending. Now, let's substitute the given values into the equation: C = 100 + 0.75Y I = 50 G = 200 Substituting these values, we get: Y = (100 + 0.75Y) + 50 + 200 To solve for Y, we need to simplify the equation: Y = 100 + 0.75Y + 50 + 200 Combining like terms, we have: Y = 350 + 0.75Y Next, we can solve for Y by isolating it on one side of the equation. To do this, we can subtract 0.75Y from both sides: Y - 0.75Y = 350 Simplifying further, we have: 0.25Y = 350 Finally, we can solve for Y by dividing both sides of the equation by 0.25: Y = 350 / 0.25 Calculating this, we find: Y = 1400 So, the equilibrium level of national income (Y) is 1400.
Question 36 Report
Money could be defined as
Answer Details
Money can be defined as a medium of exchange that is universally accepted for buying goods and services. It enables people to easily trade with one another, without the need for bartering or trading directly with goods. In simpler terms, money is like a common language that everyone understands and uses to exchange things they want or need.
Money also serves as a settlement of debt because it allows individuals, businesses, and even governments to repay what they owe. When someone borrows money or takes a loan, they can later use money to pay back the lender. Similarly, if someone owes money to another person, they can use money to settle that debt.
Additionally, money is a medium of payment. It is used to complete transactions and make payments for goods and services. Whether you are buying groceries, paying for a movie ticket, or purchasing a new gadget, money is the common method of payment.
To summarize, money is a medium of exchange, settlement of debt, and medium of payment. It simplifies trade, enables the repayment of debts, and facilitates transactions in our daily lives.
Question 37 Report
Which of the following is an example of expansionary monetary policy by the Central Bank of Nigeria?
Answer Details
An example of expansionary monetary policy by the Central Bank of Nigeria is "buying Treasury securities from commercial banks." Expansionary monetary policy is a type of policy implemented by the central bank to stimulate economic growth and increase the supply of money in the economy. This policy is typically used during times of economic downturn or recession to encourage spending and investment. When the Central Bank of Nigeria buys Treasury securities from commercial banks, it injects money into the economy. This increases the amount of money available in the banking system, making it easier for banks to lend to businesses and individuals. By increasing the money supply, the central bank aims to lower interest rates, which in turn encourages borrowing and spending. Lower interest rates mean that businesses and individuals can access credit more easily, leading to increased investment, consumer spending, and economic growth. This expansionary policy can help support economic activity, boost employment, and stimulate overall economic recovery.
Question 38 Report
The demand for money will fall if
Answer Details
If GDP falls, then people demand less money for transactions. As interest rate rise (fall), the demand for money will fall(rise).
Question 39 Report
An industry is
Answer Details
An industry is a group of firms producing similar products and under separate administration or management.
Question 40 Report
If commodities X and Y are substitute, their cross elasticity of demand will be
Answer Details
If commodities X and Y are substitutes, the cross elasticity of demand between them will be positive.
Cross elasticity of demand measures how the quantity demanded of one commodity changes in response to a change in the price of another commodity. When two commodities are substitutes, they serve similar purposes and are considered as alternatives to each other. For example, if the price of commodity X increases, some consumers may switch to commodity Y as a substitute, causing an increase in the quantity demanded of commodity Y.
The positive cross elasticity of demand reflects this relationship. It means that an increase in the price of commodity X will lead to an increase in the demand for commodity Y, and vice versa. On the other hand, if the cross elasticity of demand were negative, it would indicate that the two commodities are complements, meaning that they are used together and a change in the price of one would result in an opposite change in the demand for the other.
Therefore, in the case of substitute commodities, the cross elasticity of demand will be positive.
