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Problem-Solving and Data AnalysisEasyCorrelation from a shared cause

Problem-Solving and Data Analysis practice question

In a seaside town, ice cream sales and cases of sunburn both rise every summer. Which conclusion is justified?

  1. A. Both rise because of hot, sunny weather, not because one causes the other.Correct
  2. B. Eating ice cream causes sunburn.
  3. C. Sunburn makes people buy ice cream.
  4. D. There is no connection between them.

Answer: A. Both rise because of hot, sunny weather, not because one causes the other.

A third factor, sunny weather, drives both.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. Eating ice cream causes sunburn.
Ice cream does not burn skin.
C. Sunburn makes people buy ice cream.
Sunburn does not create the sales.
D. There is no connection between them.
They are connected, through the weather.

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