Which term describes the sharing of resources among individuals and firms in an economy?

The term that best describes the sharing of resources among individuals and firms in an economy is "resource allocation." This concept refers to the process by which resources—such as labor, capital, and land—are distributed and assigned to various uses or sectors within an economy. Effective resource allocation is crucial for maximizing efficiency and ensuring that resources are used in ways that meet society's needs and wants.

In economics, allocation can be guided by market mechanisms, such as supply and demand, or through planned approaches in a more centralized economy. The goal is to optimize the use of limited resources to achieve the best possible outcomes for individuals and society as a whole.

While the other terms may relate to the use and planning of resources in different contexts, they do not specifically capture the essence of how resources are shared and distributed in an economy as directly as "resource allocation" does.