Question

question 18 of 25
suppose there is a strong positive correlation between m and n. which of the
following must be true?
a. an increase in m causes n to increase.
b. when m increases, n tends to increase.
c. an increase in m causes n to decrease.
d. when m increases, n tends to decrease.

Explanation:

Step1: Understand correlation concept

Correlation shows a relationship, not causation. A strong positive correlation means as one variable changes, the other variable changes in the same direction.

Step2: Analyze each option

• Option A: Correlation does not imply causation. Just because there is a positive correlation between \(m\) and \(n\) does not mean an increase in \(m\) causes \(n\) to increase.
• Option B: A strong positive correlation means when \(m\) increases, \(n\) tends to increase. This is in line with the definition of positive correlation.
• Option C: A positive correlation means \(n\) should tend to increase when \(m\) increases, not decrease.
• Option D: A positive correlation means \(n\) should tend to increase when \(m\) increases, not decrease.

Answer:

B. When \(m\) increases, \(n\) tends to increase.