Each of these relationships reflects a correlation. Which relationship most likely reflects correlation but not causation?

Question

Using a fireplace more often is associated with burning wood or gas more often.
Drinking hot cocoa more often is associated with washing mugs more often.
Making snow forts more often is associated with ice skating more often.
Submit

Answer 1

The relationship that most likely reflects correlation but not causation is: Making snow forts more often is associated with ice skating more often.

This is because both activities are typically seasonal and associated with winter, but one does not cause the other. People who make snow forts may simply be enjoying winter activities in general, leading to a correlation with ice skating without a direct cause-and-effect relationship. In contrast, the other options involve more direct relationships between the activities and their causes.