Ellie and Brendan both produce apple pies and vanilla ice cream. If Ellie's opportunity cost of one apple pie is 1/2 gallon of ice cream and Brendan's opportunity cost of one apple pie is 1/4 gallon of ice cream, Ellie has a comparative advantage in the production of ice cream.

Comparative Advantage

Comparative advantage is an economic principle that describes the ability of an individual, firm, or country to produce a good or service at a lower opportunity cost than competitors.

Opportunity Cost

Opportunity cost refers to the value of the next best alternative that is foregone when choosing one option over another.

Ice Cream

A frozen dessert made from dairy products, sweeteners, and flavorings, enjoyed as a treat or snack.