Which term describes the increase in prices and decrease in purchasing power over time?

The term that describes the increase in prices and decrease in purchasing power over time is inflation. Inflation occurs when there is a general rise in the prices of goods and services in an economy. This happens due to various factors, such as increased demand for products, increased production costs, or an expansion of the money supply in the economy.

As prices rise during inflationary periods, the purchasing power of money declines. This means that consumers can buy fewer goods and services with the same amount of money than they could before. Understanding inflation is crucial because it affects savings, investments, and overall economic stability. It impacts both consumers and businesses, leading to adjustments in wages, pricing strategies, and economic policies.

In contrast, the other terms listed refer to different economic conditions. Recession refers to a period of economic decline characterized by falling GDP and increased unemployment. Deflation is the opposite of inflation and involves a decrease in prices, leading to an increase in purchasing power. Stagnation refers to a prolonged period of slow economic growth, which may accompany high unemployment and consistent low inflation or deflation. It's important to grasp these distinctions when studying economic concepts, particularly how they relate to personal finance and purchasing power.