If the value of the covariance is negative, which of the following cannot be true?
A) the slope is negative
B) the correlation coefficient is negative
C) the slope is exactly zero
D) the constant is exactly zero

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

If the covariance is negative, it means that there is an inverse relationship between the two variables. This means that if one variable increases, the other variable decreases. Therefore, the slope cannot be exactly zero as this implies that there is no relationship between the variables. Choices A and B are possible as the slope and correlation coefficient can both be negative in an inverse relationship. Choice D is also possible as a negative covariance does not imply anything about the value of the constant.

If the Value of the Covariance Is Negative, Which of the Following