The number of ice cream cones that are eaten on a given day is correlated with the number of people who are wearing sweaters on a given day. Which of the following probably explains the correlations
A)sweater wearing causes ice cream eating
B)ice cream eating causes sweater wearing
C)ice cream eating and sweater wearing are independent
D)there is a common-causing variable

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The correlation between ice cream consumption and sweater wearing is likely due to a common-causing variable, such as temperature. Warmer days may lead to more ice cream being eaten and fewer sweaters being worn, while colder days have the opposite effect. This explains the correlation without implying direct causation between the two activities.

The Number of Ice Cream Cones That Are Eaten on a Given