Question

which relationships would most likely be causal? select two options.
a positive correlation between the number of homework assignments completed and the grade on the exam
a positive correlation between the temperature in a canyon in the early spring and the number of snakes seen by hikers
a positive correlation between a childs shoe size and reading speed
a negative correlation between the time a glass of ice water sits on the counter and its temperature
a positive correlation between the number of students attending football games and the number of games that are won

Explanation:

• For the first option: Completing more homework (cause) can lead to better understanding and thus a higher exam grade (effect).
• For the second option: Warmer temperatures (cause) in early spring make snakes more active and likely to be seen by hikers (effect).
• For the third option: A child's shoe size and reading speed are not causally related. Shoe size depends on physical growth, reading speed on learning and practice.
• For the fourth option: As time passes, ice water absorbs heat from the environment (cause), so its temperature increases (effect), not a negative correlation.
• For the fifth option: The number of students attending football games and the number of games won are not causally linked. Attendance doesn't directly cause wins.

Answer:

A. a positive correlation between the number of homework assignments completed and the grade on the exam, B. a positive correlation between the temperature in a canyon in the early spring and the number of snakes seen by hikers