The mutual interdependence that characterizes oligopoly arises because: the products of various firms are homogeneous. the products of various firms are differentiated. a small number of firms produce a large proportion of industry output. the demand curves of firms are kinked at the prevailing price. If there are significant economies of scale in an industry, then: a firm that is large may be able to produce at a lower unit cost than can a small firm. a firm that is large will have to charge a higher price than will a small firm. entry to that industry will be easy. firms must differentiate their products to earn economic profits. Game theory can be used to demonstrate that oligopolists: rarely consider the potential reactions of rivals. experience economies of scale. that oligopolists can increase their profits through collusion. may be either homogeneous or differentiated.

An oligopoly can be defined as a market structure comprising of a small number of firms (sellers) offering identical or similar products, wherein none can limit the significant influence of others.

Hence, it is a market structure that is distinguished by several characteristics, one of which is either similar or identical products and dominance by few firms.

The characteristics of an oligopolistic market structure are;

I. Mutual interdependence between the firms.

II. Market control by many small firms.

III. Difficult entry to new firms.

Under the game theory, when firms makes a decision about their business, it is expected that they consider how the other firms would react to such decisions.

1. The mutual interdependence that characterizes oligopoly arises because a small number of firms produce a large proportion of industry output.

2. If there are significant economies of scale in an industry, then a firm that is large may be able to produce at a lower unit cost than can a small firm.

3. Game theory can be used to demonstrate that oligopolists can increase their profits through collusion.