A statement is made about correlation. State whether the correlation is positive or negative and whether the correlation ismost likely due to coincidence, a common underlying cause, or a direct cause.
-Over the last 10 years in this town, as the amount of open space has decreased, consumer spending has increased.
A)Positive correlation; common underlying cause
B)Negative correlation; common underlying cause
C)Negative correlation; direct cause
D)Positive correlation; direct cause

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The correlation is negative because as one variable (amount of open space) decreases, the other (consumer spending) increases. It's likely due to a common underlying cause, such as economic growth or urban development, which both reduces open space and increases consumer spending.

A Statement Is Made About Correlation