Chapter 4 / Lesson 9 Correlation vs. Causation: Differences & Definition

A scientist plots data points from an experiment, and notices that the dependent variables and the independent variables in the data set are decreasing together. What kind of correlation have they discovered, and why?

A positive correlation, because these describe situations where the dependent variables and the independent variables in a data set increase or decrease together.

A scientist finishes an experiment, and concludes that there is a causal link between the independent variable and the dependent variable. Why might they come to this conclusion?

Because changes in the independent variable appear to cause changes in the dependent variable.

A scientist is designing an experiment with rats, and designates weight as the dependent variable. Why might this be the case?

Because the weight will be influenced by an outside factor that the scientist controls.

What is a condition or piece of data in an experiment that can be controlled or changed?

Independent variable

What is it called when dependent variables and independent variables in a data set either increase or decrease opposite from one another?

Negative correlation