What do businesses aim to achieve in order to prevent surpluses or shortages?

Businesses aim to achieve equilibrium as it represents the point where the quantity supplied equals the quantity demanded in the market. This balance is crucial for preventing surpluses, where more goods are available than consumers want to purchase, and shortages, where demand exceeds supply.

At equilibrium, businesses can efficiently allocate resources, set optimal prices, and plan their production schedules without facing excess inventory or missed sales opportunities. This stability enables them to meet customer demand while managing costs effectively. Maintaining equilibrium is a key aspect of market dynamics and operational strategy for businesses striving for longevity and sustainability in the marketplace.

The other options relate to important aspects of business operations, but they do not specifically address the critical balance of supply and demand that equilibrium represents.