Question

Researchers wanted to know if there is a link between proximity to​ high-tension wires and the rate of leukemia in children. To conduct the​ study, researchers compared the rate of leukemia for children who lived within​ 1/2 mile of​ high-tension wires to the rate of leukemia for children who did not live within​ 1/2 mile of​ high-tension wires. The researchers found that the rate of leukemia for children near​ high-tension wires was higher than the rate for those not near​ high-tension wires. Can the researchers conclude that proximity with​ high-tension wires causes leukemia in​ children? ​(This is a reading assessment question. Be certain of your answer because you only get one attempt on this​ question.)

A. ​Yes, because this is an observational​ studies, which allow for statements of causality.
B. ​No, because this is an observational study.
C. ​Yes, because this is a designed​ experiment, which allow for statements of causality.
D. ​No, because this is a designed experiment.

Answer 1

No, because this is an observational study.

Explanation:

The researchers found that the rate of leukemia for children near​ high-tension wires was higher than the rate for those not near​ high-tension wires.

So, the answer is No, the researchers cannot conclude that proximity with​ high-tension wires causes leukemia in​ children as this is only an observational study.

Observational study is that study where the researcher observes the effect of a risk factor, diagnostic test or treatment without trying to control who is or is not exposed to it.