If the coefficient of correlation between x and y is close to −1.0, which of the following statements is correct?
A)There is a strong, positive linear relationship between x and y, where there may or may not be any causal relationship between x and y.
B)There is a strong, negative linear relationship between x and y, where there must be a causal relationship between x and y.
C)There is a weak, negative linear relationship between x and y, where there may or may not be any causal relationship between x and y.
D)There is a strong, negative linear relationship between x and y, where there may or may not be any causal relationship between x and y.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A coefficient of correlation of −1.0 indicates a perfect negative linear relationship between x and y, meaning that as x increases, y decreases at a constant rate. This suggests a strong negative linear relationship between x and y. However, correlation does not imply causation, so it is possible that there may or may not be a causal relationship between x and y. Therefore, the correct statement is that there is a strong, negative linear relationship between x and y, where there may or may not be any causal relationship between x and y.

If the Coefficient of Correlation Between X and Y Is