Question

A researcher is looking at ice cream sales during the summer months and wondering what variables might predict an increase or decrease in sales. Which of the following correlations are likely to be true?

a) Positive correlation between ice cream sales and sunscreen sales
b) Negative correlation between ice cream sales and park visits
c) Positive correlation between ice cream sales and hot chocolate sales
d) Negative correlation between ice cream sales and sunglasses sales

Answer 1

The likely correlations are a positive correlation between ice cream sales and sunscreen sales, and negative correlations between ice cream sales and park visits, and ice cream sales and sunglasses sales.

Step-by-step explanation:

When exploring the relationship between ice cream sales and other variables, we need to consider the concept of correlation. A positive correlation means that as one variable increases, the other variable also increases. However, a negative correlation means that as one variable increases, the other variable decreases.

Based on this information, the likely correlations are:

1. Positive correlation between ice cream sales and sunscreen sales: During the summer months, both ice cream and sunscreen sales are likely to increase as people spend more time outdoors.
2. Negative correlation between ice cream sales and park visits: It is reasonable to assume that as more people visit parks during the summer, they may spend less time purchasing ice cream.
3. Negative correlation between ice cream sales and sunglasses sales: Sunglasses sales may decrease during the summer months, as people are more likely to wear hats or stay indoors to escape the sun.