A researcher measures the correlation between two variables. This correlation tells us:
A)whether there is a relation between two variables.
B)whether a scatterplot shows an interesting pattern.
C)whether a cause-and-effect relation exists between two variables.
D)the strength and direction of a linear association between two variables.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Correlation tells us the strength and direction of a linear association between two variables, but it does not establish a cause-and-effect relationship between them. It does indicate whether there is a relation between two variables, but it is not related to whether a scatterplot shows an interesting pattern. Hence, option D is the correct choice.

A Researcher Measures the Correlation Between Two Variables