A Statement Is Made About Correlation

Multiple Choice

A statement is made about correlation. State whether the correlation is positive or negative and whether the correlation ismost likely due to coincidence, a common underlying cause, or a direct cause.
-Over the last 10 years in this town, as the amount of open space has decreased, consumer spending has increased.

A) Positive correlation; common underlying cause
B) Negative correlation; common underlying cause
C) Negative correlation; direct cause
D) Positive correlation; direct cause