Final answer:
The question is about the relationship between variables on a scatter plot. The variables, scores on the regional exam and the NBDHE, are best described as positively correlated because the correlation coefficient is significantly different from zero and the scatter plot shows a linear trend.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question concerns the relationship between two variables, as evidenced by a scatter plot. When examining scatter plots, we look for patterns that suggest how two variables might be related: as one increases, does the other tend to increase (a positive correlation), decrease (a negative correlation), or remain unaffected (no correlation)? A scatter plot that shows a trend where variables increase together signifies a positive correlation (0 < r < 1). Conversely, if one variable tends to decrease as the other increases, this indicates a negative correlation (-1
Based on the given information, since the correlation coefficient is significantly different from zero and the scatter plot shows a linear trend, the two variables are best described as positively correlated. The ability to use a regression line for predictions indicates a sufficient level of linearity in the relationship, which further supports the presence of a positive correlation.