An externality is best described as a by-product where the market cannot specify a price for the by-product. This is because externalities occur when the actions of individuals or companies have effects on third parties that are not reflected in market prices. For example, pollution from a factory may harm the environment or people's health, but those costs may not be paid by the factory, leading to an unmeasured impact on society. Thus, the correct choice is:
A by-product where the market cannot specify a price for the by-product.