In 2013, the U.S. federal government's total public debt reached $16.8 trillion, and it was expected to

Question:

In 2013, the U.S. federal government's total public debt reached $16.8 trillion, and it was expected to grow much larger during the coming decade.
a. Many people were (and are) concerned that the government could default on its loans, and the economy could face severe consequences. Under what conditions can a government default?
b. Is the U.S. government's debt a burden on future generations?
c. Does the U.S. government eventually have to pay off its debt?