WAEC Economics 1994 Theory question 108

Theory question 108

Money and Inflation

Section B: answer three questions only from this section.
What is money? Explain its characteristics.

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Model answer

Money is anything generally acceptable as a medium of exchange and in settlement of debts
Characteristics: general acceptability
Portability (easy to carry)
Durability (does not wear out quickly)
Divisibility into smaller units without loss of value
Homogeneity / uniformity (units of the same value are identical)
Scarcity / limited supply, so it keeps its value
Stability of value
Recognisability and difficulty to forge
Each characteristic should be explained briefly

Explanation

Define money, then explain at least five characteristics.