4.5

Oligopoly and Game Theory

AP Microeconomics

Characteristics of Oligopoly

Mutual Interdependence

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The Kinked Demand Curve Model

2468101251015Quantity$/unitKink (current P)MR gap topMR gap bottomD (elastic above)D (inelastic below)MR (upper)MR (lower)

Kinked demand creates a vertical gap in MR — MC can shift within this gap without changing price

The MR Gap

Game Theory Basics

Key Terms

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The Prisoner's Dilemma

Payoff Matrix

Analysis

Collusion and Cartels

Why Collude?

Why Cartels Break Down

Nash Equilibrium

Dominant Strategy vs. Nash Equilibrium

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Oligopoly Models Summary

AP Exam Tips

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Common Mistakes

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