Question

identify the correlation coefficient r that is most likely to correspond with the scatterplot below.
show your work here
\\( r = -0.88 \\) \\( r = -0.54 \\)
\\( r = -0.09 \\) \\( r = 0.51 \\)
\\( r = 0.86 \\)

Explanation:

Step1: Determine correlation direction

The scatterplot shows a general downward trend (as x increases, y decreases), so r is negative. Eliminate positive options (0.51, 0.86).

Step2: Assess correlation strength

The points are scattered but follow a noticeable downward pattern—not extremely tight (ruling out -0.88, a strong correlation) nor almost random (ruling out -0.09, weak). The pattern matches a moderate negative correlation.

Answer:

r = -0.54