Describe how government is involved in creating a monopoly. Why might the government create one? Give an example

The government can create a monopoly by giving a single firm the exclusive right to produce some good. Monopolies are created for many reasons. When an industry is characterized by high fixed costs, a single firm can usually supply the entire market at a lower cost than having multiple firms in the industry. Examples include most utility companies. The government also grants sole ownership of inventions through patent laws in order to help eliminate the market failure that is likely to otherwise occur in the markets for those goods. Patents encourage creativity and research and development.