In economics , Market Structure (also known as the number of firms producing identical products.) The imperfectly competitive structure is quite identical to the realistic market conditions where some monopolistic competitors , monopolists , oligopolists , exist and dominate the market conditions. The elements of Market Structure include the number and size distribution of firms, entry conditions, and the extent of differentiation.The correct sequence of the market structure from most to least competitive is perfect competition, imperfect competition,oligopoly, and pure monopoly.

The main criteria by which one can distinguish between different market structures are: the number and size of producers and consumers in the market, the type of goods and services being traded, and the degree to which information can flow freely.