Which term describes a substance that is useful to people and socially acceptable to use?

The term that best describes a substance that is useful to people and socially acceptable to use is "commodity." A commodity refers to a basic good that is interchangeable with other goods of the same type, and it is often considered valuable or useful in society. Commodities are typically raw materials or primary agricultural products that can be bought, sold, and traded, and their value is derived from their utility and demand.

In contrast, a resource generally refers to a broader category that includes various assets—natural, human, or economic—that contribute to productivity, but it doesn’t specifically encompass the notion of social acceptability in the same manner as commodities. Material is a more general term that describes physical substances or items and does not inherently imply social acceptance or utility. An asset can refer to anything of value owned by a person or entity, encompassing commodities but also extending beyond to include other forms of value that may not be socially acceptable or useful in a practical sense. Thus, "commodity" most accurately captures the essence of a substance that is not only useful but also socially acceptable for use.