Question

the number of times a player has golfed in ones lifetime is compared to the number of strokes it takes the player to complete 18 holes. the correlation coefficient relating the two variables is -0.26. which best describes the strength of the correlation, and what is true about the causation between the variables? it is a weak negative correlation, and it is not likely causal. it is a weak negative correlation, and it is likely causal. it is a strong negative correlation, and it is not likely causal. it is a strong negative correlation, and it is likely causal.

Explanation:

• Correlation strength: The absolute value of the correlation coefficient \(r = - 0.26\) is \(|r|=0.26\). Since \(0<|r|<0.3\) is considered a weak correlation.
• Causation: Just because there is a correlation (even if it were stronger) between the number of times a player has golfed and the number of strokes to complete 18 holes does not mean one causes the other. There could be other factors (e.g., natural talent, practice frequency other than just the number of times golfed, course conditions) that affect the number of strokes.

Answer:

It is a weak negative correlation, and it is not likely causal.