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Problem-Solving and Data AnalysisEasy–MediumPair of variables with a negative association

Problem-Solving and Data Analysis practice question

The line of best fit for a scatterplot has a NEGATIVE slope. Which of the following pairs of variables is most likely to be the ones plotted?

  1. A. Average outdoor temperature and the amount of heating fuel a household uses.Correct
  2. B. A person's height and weight.
  3. C. Hours spent studying and score on a test.
  4. D. The price of a product and the cost of the raw materials in it.

Answer: A. Average outdoor temperature and the amount of heating fuel a household uses.

When the temperature is higher, households burn less heating fuel: as one variable rises, the other falls — a negative association.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. A person's height and weight.
Taller people tend to weigh more: positive.
C. Hours spent studying and score on a test.
More study, higher scores: positive.
D. The price of a product and the cost of the raw materials in it.
Costlier materials, higher prices: positive.

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