Theory question 102
TransportCommerce 2 (essay, answer five questions only)
(a) State four reasons why transport is important to commerce
(b) Explain three advantages and three disadvantages of air transport.
Show the model answer
(a) Any four: moves goods from producers to consumers; widens markets; moves raw materials to factories; encourages specialisation and mass production; creates employment; helps stabilise prices; aids foreign trade.
(b) Advantages (any three, explained): fastest means; good for perishable and valuable goods; less damage/pilfering; reaches distant places quickly; comfortable for passengers.
Disadvantages (any three, explained): very expensive; unsuitable for bulky/heavy goods; affected by weather; needs costly airports; no door-to-door service; accidents are disastrous.
Speed is air transport's main advantage, cost its main disadvantage.