Question

the number of grams of zero - calorie sodium in a restaurant meal is compared to the total number of calories in the meal. the correlation coefficient relating the two variables is 0.74. which best describes the strength of the correlation, and what is true about the causation between sodium and the number of calories in this meal? o it is a weak positive correlation, and it is not likely causal. o it is a weak positive correlation, and it is likely causal. o it is a strong positive correlation,and it is not likely causal. o it is a strong positive correlation, and it is likely causal.

Explanation:

Step1: Interpret correlation coefficient

A correlation coefficient ($r$) close to 1 indicates a strong positive correlation. Since $r = 0.74$, which is relatively close to 1, it is a strong positive correlation.

Step2: Analyze causation

Just because there is a correlation between the amount of zero - calorie sodium and total calories in a meal does not mean one causes the other. There could be other factors (e.g., type of meal, cooking methods) that affect both sodium and calorie content. So, it is not likely causal.

Answer:

It is a strong positive correlation, and it is not likely causal.