Microeconomics is the study of A. how households and firms make choices, how they interact in markets, and how the government attempts to influence their B. how individuals and firms act altruistically to better society. C. how individuals make good decisions for themselves but hurt society. D. the economy as a whole, including topics such as inflation, unemployment, and economic growth.

The correct answer is: **A. how households and firms make choices, how they interact in markets, and how the government attempts to influence their choices.** ### Explanation: - **Microeconomics** focuses on the behavior of individual households and firms, their decision-making processes, and how they interact in various markets. It also examines how government policies can affect these choices and market outcomes. - **Option B** is incorrect because microeconomics does not primarily focus on altruism. - **Option C** is misleading as microeconomics studies individual decision-making without implying that it necessarily harms society. - **Option D** describes **macroeconomics**, which looks at the economy as a whole, including broader topics like inflation and unemployment. Thus, option A accurately captures the essence of microeconomics.