The average annual temperature among geographic regions is plotted on the x-axis of a graph and the spiciness of local food in that region is plotted on the y-axis. If the hotness of local food increases as the average annual temperature increases, then what can be concluded?
A) The spiciness of local food does not correlate with the regional average annual temperature.
B) Food is spicy in warm climates because the warm temperatures make local foods more spicy.
C) The relationship between the two variables shows causation but is not correlation.
D) Spiciness of food and annual average temperature are correlated, but causation is not implied.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The question states that there is a correlation between the two variables (average temperature and spiciness of local food). However, it does not imply a causal relationship. Therefore, option D is the best choice. Option B may seem plausible, but it relies on a casual inference.

The Average Annual Temperature Among Geographic Regions Is Plotted on the X-Axis