Question

A condensed study report provides data that shows that the number of wolves is correlated to the number of bats. It reports that as the wolf population increases, the bat population decreases. The study’s conclusion is that increased wolf population causes decreased bat population. Which of the following choices describe the information provided.

(1 point)
Responses

There is a lack of information. The correlation needs to be identified as negative in order to confirm the causal effect.

There is a lack of information. The correlation needs to be identified as negative in order to confirm the causal effect.

There is a lack of information. More information is needed to determine if one population is causing an effect on the other.

There is a lack of information. More information is needed to determine if one population is causing an effect on the other.

All the relevant information to determine cause and effect is provided.

All the relevant information to determine cause and effect is provided.

All the relevant information is provided, but it shows it is the bat population that causes the effect on the wolf population.

All the relevant information is provided, but it shows it is the bat population that causes the effect on the wolf population.

Answer 1

The most accurate choice in response to the study's conclusion is:

**There is a lack of information. More information is needed to determine if one population is causing an effect on the other.**

This is because correlation does not imply causation, and further evidence is required to establish a causal relationship between the wolf and bat populations.