Question

question 12 of 12
which statements describe the relationship between correlation and causation?
select the two answers that are correct.

• either variable might be the cause, or both variables might be influenced by a third unknown variable.
• when a correlation has a high probability, it strongly implies causation.
• correlation alone is not sufficient evidence to attribute causation.
• strong correlations among variables are evidence of causation by the independent variable.
• when two variables correlate, it strongly implies that a third unknown variable is the causal factor.

Explanation:

Correlation indicates a relationship but does not prove causation. A correlation could arise from reverse causation, a third confounding variable, or coincidence. Thus, correlation alone lacks enough evidence for causation, and alternative causal explanations (like third variables or bidirectional causation) are possible. High probability or strength of correlation does not imply causation, and a third variable is not always the cause—only a potential explanation.

Answer:

Either variable might be the cause, or both variables might be influenced by a third unknown variable.
Correlation alone is not sufficient evidence to attribute causation.