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Demand equation

A straight-line demand equation commonly expresses price as P = a − bQ, where a is the model’s price intercept and b is the fall in price per additional unit of quantity. Estimate the relationship from consistent observations or supplied data. The equation supports revenue and profit analysis but assumes other factors are unchanged and the linear relationship applies over the relevant range. Its intercepts may lie outside a commercially meaningful range.

Worked example

Price falls from $40 at 100 units to $30 at 200. b = 10/100 = 0.10 and a = 40 + 0.10 × 100 = 50, so P = 50 − 0.10Q.

Common mistake

Do not confuse an equation for price with one for quantity or use the same slope units when rearranging it.

Where it appears in your exams

QualificationExamRelationshipPeriod
ACCA PM Direct September 2026–June 2027