Question

Why is it that one hand coal is found in plenty yet it is scarce while on the other hand rotten vegetable is rare but not scarce?

Answer 1

Scarcity of a product is defined in relation to its availability against the need. Coal although found in plenty is still not enough when compared to its need/demand (present as well as growing future demand). In this way, we say that coal is scarce. On the other hand, a rotten fruit, even though is rare cannot be said to be scarce because it does not have any need/demand.