Question

Question

Data from a research study shows that there is a strong, positive linear correlation between rainfall and online food ordering.
Which of the following statements is true?
Responses

It is unknown if this study was conducted with the proper controls, so the strong correlation does not conclude that increased rainfall causes an increase in online food ordering sales.
It is unknown if this study was conducted with the proper controls, so the strong correlation does not conclude that increased rainfall causes an increase in online food ordering sales.

The strong, positive linear correlation implies that an increase in rainfall causes more online food ordering sales.
The strong, positive linear correlation implies that an increase in rainfall causes more online food ordering sales.

The strong correlation in this context means that there is a clear relationship between the variables in the study, so causation can be established.
The strong correlation in this context means that there is a clear relationship between the variables in the study, so causation can be established.

This experiment was a controlled study, so causation can be established.

Answer 1

The correct statement is:

It is unknown if this study was conducted with the proper controls, so the strong correlation does not conclude that increased rainfall causes an increase in online food ordering sales.

Correlation does not imply causation; even if there is a strong correlation between rainfall and online food ordering, it does not necessarily mean that one causes the other without further investigation and proper controls in place.