How are surplus and shortage related to equilibrium price?

Surplus occurs when the supply of a good exceeds its demand at a given price, leading to downward pressure on the price until it reaches equilibrium. Conversely, a shortage arises when demand surpasses supply, causing prices to rise as consumers compete for the limited quantity available. The equilibrium price is the point at which supply and demand are balanced, with no surplus or shortage present. Thus, both surplus and shortage drive the market toward the equilibrium price through adjustments in supply and demand.