Skip to content
    Economics A-Level

    Purchasing power

    What Purchasing power means in Economics A-Level, as defined for AQA.

    Definitions of Purchasing power

    Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.

    Check what you remember

    Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Purchasing power in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.

    Reference: AQA

    What determines for whom goods are produced, since those with higher incomes have a greater incentive and ability to consume.
    AQA · How markets and prices allocate resources
    What real income represents, being nominal income adjusted for inflation, so that a fall means fewer goods can be bought.
    AQA · The circular flow of income
    During deflation, this increases as goods become cheaper and the same amount of currency buys more goods.
    AQA · Inflation and deflation

    Topics that use Purchasing power

    Related terms

    Using Purchasing power in the exam

    Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.

    Practise Economics questions

    Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.

    Start free

    A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge

    All Economics A-Level terms