If we find that there is a linear correlation between the concentration of carbo

Question

If we find that there is a linear correlation between the concentration of carbon dioxide in our atmosphere and the global temperature, does that indicate that changes in the concentration of carbon dioxide cause changes in the global temperature? Choose the correct answer below. A. No. The presence of a linear correlation between two variables does not imply that one of the variables is the cause of the other variable. B. Yes. The presence of a linear correlation between two variables implies that one of the variables is the cause of the other variable.

Explanation / Answer

The correlation is a measure of linear relationship betweeen two variables. But, the correlation should be meaningful. The correlation between number of accidents in Raleigh and number of people suffered by a particular disease may be very high, but this is spurious. Also, existing a correlation does not mean that is significant to fit a linear regression line between the two variables. So, the presence of a linear correlation does not imply that one variable is the cause of other.

Answer is (B)

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