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

Analyze the correlation coefficient

Using the Correlation Coefficient and Correlation Strength knowledge points, we evaluate the given correlation coefficient, \(r = -0.26\).

• The negative sign indicates a negative correlation.
• The absolute value \(|r| = 0.26\) is close to \(0\), which falls into the range typically classified as a weak correlation (generally \(|r| < 0.3\) or \(0.4\)).
• Therefore, the relationship is a weak negative correlation.

Evaluate causation

We analyze whether a causal relationship is likely between the two variables:

• The variables are "the number of times a player has golfed in one's lifetime" and "the number of strokes it takes to complete 18 holes."
• While practice (golfing more) generally helps improve performance (reducing strokes), a correlation coefficient of \(-0.26\) is very weak.
• A weak correlation indicates that lifetime golf frequency alone does not reliably predict or directly cause a specific change in the score, as many other confounding variables (such as natural talent, coaching, or physical fitness) play a much larger role.
• Thus, with such a weak statistical association, it is not likely causal.

Answer:

• It is a weak negative correlation, and it is likely causal.
• It is a weak negative correlation, and it is not likely causal. (Correct answer)
• It is a strong negative correlation, and it is not likely causal.
• It is a strong negative correlation, and it is likely causal.