Question

A study of several cities shows a positive correlation between the percent of people who swim outdoors and the number of barbecue grills sold.

Which statement is most likely true?


a. The correlation is due to a third variable: cost of milk.
b. The correlation is due to a third variable: weather.
c. Swimming makes people hungry for a barbecue.
d. Barbecuing makes people want to swim.

Answer 1

b. The correlation is due to a third variable: weather.
because weather effects swimming and barbecues. :)

Answer 2

B. The correlation is due to a third variable: weather

Explanation:

There is a positive correlation between the percent of people who swim outdoors and number of barbeque grills sold. This means that that the number of grills sold increases when more people swim outdoors and vice versa. These two things are not directly connected as you don't need to have a barbeque when you swim and you don't need to swim when you have a barbeque. However, both of these things are done more frequently when the weather is warm. Therefore, the correlation is due to a third variable, the weather.