Question

what is meant by the statement that two variables are related?
choose the correct answer.
two variables are related when the value of one can be derived mathematically from the value of the other.
two variables are related when a scatterplot can be made of points using the two variables as values.
two variables are related when a change in one can be shown to cause a change in the other.
two variables are related when a discernible pattern exists between them.

Explanation:

• The first option is too restrictive as not all related variables have a strict mathematical derivation relationship.
• Just being able to make a scatter - plot (second option) does not imply a meaningful relationship.
• Causation (third option) is a stronger condition than just being related. A discernible pattern (fourth option) is a more general and appropriate description for two variables being related.

Answer:

Two variables are related when a discernible pattern exists between them.