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Problem-Solving and Data AnalysisEasy–MediumInterpreting a downward trend

Problem-Solving and Data Analysis practice question

A scatterplot shows the age of used cars on the x-axis and their selling prices on the y-axis. The points trend downward from left to right. Which of the following does this suggest?

  1. A. Older cars tend to sell for less.Correct
  2. B. Older cars tend to sell for more.
  3. C. Age has no relationship with price.
  4. D. Every car of the same age sells for the same price.

Answer: A. Older cars tend to sell for less.

As x (age) increases, y (price) tends to fall: a negative association.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. Older cars tend to sell for more.
That would trend upward.
C. Age has no relationship with price.
A clear trend is a relationship.
D. Every car of the same age sells for the same price.
A trend does not mean identical prices.

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