High School

Match correlation patterns with descriptions of the scatter plots they're associated with.

A. High positive
B. High negative
C. Low correlation
D. No correlation
E. Nonlinear

1. A scatter diagram with widely scattered data points above and below an upward trending best-fit line.
2. A pattern ascending from left to right with the variables moving in the same direction.
3. A scatter diagram with scattered data points that don't form any particular line.
4. A scatter diagram with a significant change in the dependent variable taking place at a certain value of the independent variable.
5. A scatter diagram with a line descending from left to right with the variables moving in opposite directions.

Answer :

In mathematics, understanding the concept of correlation is crucial when analyzing scatter plots. Correlation describes the strength and direction of a linear relationship between two quantitative variables. Let's examine the descriptions given and match them with the appropriate correlation patterns:

  1. A scatter diagram with widely scattered data points above and below an upward trending best-fit line. This describes a scenario where the data points somewhat follow an upward trend, but they are spread out, not closely hugging the best-fit line. This indicates a Low Correlation (C). The association is there, but it's weak due to the scatter.

  2. A pattern ascending from left to right with the variables moving in the same direction. In this description, the data points show a clear ascending pattern, indicating a strong relation where both variables increase together. This is a High Positive Correlation (A). The scatter plot would show the points closely aligned along an upward sloping line.

  3. A scatter diagram with scattered data points that don't form any particular line. Points that are randomly scattered with no apparent trend or pattern indicate No Correlation (D). The data does not show a linear relationship.

  4. A scatter diagram with a significant change in the dependent variable taking place at a certain value of the independent variable. This pattern is indicative of a relationship that isn’t best represented by a straight line. It might involve quadratic or other non-linear relationships, fitting the Nonlinear category (E).

  5. A scatter diagram with a line descending from left to right with the variables moving in opposite directions. This is characteristic of a negative relationship where one variable increases as the other decreases. The points would form a downward slope, representing a High Negative Correlation (B).

By analyzing the scatter plots and understanding these descriptions, you’ll be able to identify the type of correlation represented in each case. These skills are essential for tasks like predicting outcomes based on data trends and understanding relationships between variables in various fields such as science, economics, and engineering.