Question

analyzing a scatterplot
analyze the scatterplot to determine its characteristics.
check all that apply.
□ no correlation
□ nonlinear association
□ weak association
□ clusters about a line
□ positive slope

Explanation:

• No correlation: If there was no correlation, the points would be completely random with no discernible pattern. But here, there is some sort of (albeit weak) upward - trend, so this is incorrect.
• Non - linear association: A non - linear association would have a curved pattern (like a parabola, exponential curve etc.). The points here seem to have a very rough upward linear trend (even if weak), so this is incorrect.
• Weak association: The points are spread out and do not form a tight cluster around an imaginary line. This indicates a weak association.
• Clusters about a line: If there was a strong association, the points would cluster closely around a line. But the points are spread out, so this is incorrect.
• Positive slope: As \(x\) increases, \(y\) has a very rough tendency to increase (even if the increase is not very consistent), so there is a positive slope.

Answer:

weak association, positive slope