Big Ideas Math Integrated I, 2016
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Big Ideas Math Integrated I, 2016 View details
5. Analyzing Lines of Fit
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Exercise 24 Page 197

What is the difference between correlation and causation?

Positive correlation, no causal relationship

Practice makes perfect

A correlation is a relationship between data sets. We want to know if it is likely that there is a correlation between the weight of a dog and the length of its tail. Let's explore what a positive correlation between these two would lead to.

Let's look into the weight and tail length of small and of large dogs.

  • A small dog typically weighs a little and has a short tail.
  • A large dog typically weighs a lot and has a long tail.

It is likely a positive correlation exists here. However, if a full grown dog gains extra weight this will not make its tail extend. Therefore, there is no causal relationship.