Question

A study of weekly hours of television watched and sat scores report a correlation of r= -1.18. From this information, what can we conclude?

1) There is a strong positive correlation between weekly hours of television watched and SAT scores
2) There is a strong negative correlation between weekly hours of television watched and SAT scores
3) There is no correlation between weekly hours of television watched and SAT scores
4) The correlation coefficient is not valid

Answer 1

The correlation coefficient of r= -1.18 is not valid because it falls outside the possible range for correlation coefficients, which is between -1 and 1. Therefore, none of the options indicating a type of correlation are correct.

Step-by-step explanation:

The number -1.18 claimed to be a correlation coefficient cannot be correct because correlation coefficients must range between -1 and 1. An r value of -1.18 is outside this range, indicating that there is an error. In general, a negative correlation would suggest that as one variable increases, the other variable tends to decrease. An example of negative correlation is that as the number of hours spent watching TV increases, SAT scores might decrease. However, since the value given (-1.18) is invalid, the correct conclusion is option 4) The correlation coefficient is not valid.