In order to establish a statistical correlation between a and E, we compare two groups that are basically the same, except that a is present in one and not present in the other.If it turns out that E is more common when a is present, is this enough to show that they correlate?

A) Yes, any slight difference in the presence of E proves a correlation.
B) It depends on how big the difference is between the presence of E in the two groups.
C) No, because it only proves a causal relationship, not a correlation.
D) No, because a correlation could only be shown if a were present in both groups.
E) No, because a correlation could only be shown if E were equally present in both groups.

Question

Seijuro Akashi · Accepted Answer

Final Answer : B, Explanation :  A statistical correlation can be established through comparing two groups that are the same except for one variable. In this scenario, if E is more common when a is present, there may be a correlation between a and E. However, the significance of this correlation would depend on the size of the difference between the two groups. A larger difference would suggest a stronger correlation, while a smaller difference may not be statistically significant. Therefore, choice B is the correct answer. Choices A, C, D, and E are all incorrect. A is incorrect because even a slight difference does not necessarily prove a correlation. C is incorrect because a correlation is a statistical relationship, not necessarily a causal one. D is incorrect because the presence of a in both groups would be necessary to establish causality, not correlation. E is incorrect because equality in the presence of E is not required for a correlation to exist.

Definitions

Learning Objectives

Learning Objectives

Related questions