How does a free market eliminate a shortage?

A free market eliminates a shortage primarily by allowing prices to rise. When demand for a product exceeds its supply, this situation creates a shortage. In response, the market mechanism triggers an increase in the price of the product. As prices rise, several effects occur:

Consumers may reduce their demand for the product because of higher costs, making them either look for substitutes or decide to purchase less of the good. On the supply side, higher prices can incentivize producers to increase production, as the potential for higher profits becomes attractive. This increased supply helps to eventually balance the market by meeting the demand or even exceeding it.

Thus, allowing prices to rise is a natural response in a free market that helps eliminate shortages through adjustments in both consumer behavior and producer supply capabilities.