Statistics: Correlation · Class 11 · CBSE · Commerce Economics
Explain why correlation between two variables does not necessarily prove that one variable causes the other.
Practice question from Statistics: Correlation (Class 11 · CBSE · Commerce Economics), with the correct answer and a step-by-step solution.
medium · Subjective · Q-1C24D0
Explain why correlation between two variables does not necessarily prove that one variable causes the other.
Answer: Correlation shows that two variables move together in some degree, but it does not establish a cause-and-effect relationship. The observed association may be due to a third variable, reverse causation, or mere coincidence; for example, ice-cream sales and swimming accidents may both rise because of higher temperatures.
Solution
Correlation measures the degree and direction of association between variables, not causation. A third factor or coincidence can produce correlation without one variable causing changes in the other.
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