Question

the number of times a player has golfed in ones lifetime is compared to the number of strokes it takes the player to complete 18 holes. the correlation coefficient relating the two variables is -0.26. which best describes the strength of the correlation, and what is true about the causation between the variables? it is a weak negative correlation, and it is not likely causal. it is a weak negative correlation, and it is likely causal. it is a strong negative correlation, and it is not likely causal. it is a strong negative correlation, and it is likely causal.

Explanation:

Step1: Interpret correlation coefficient value

The correlation coefficient $r = - 0.26$. The magnitude of $r$ is between 0 and 0.3, which indicates a weak correlation. A negative $r$ - value means a negative correlation.

Step2: Analyze causation

Just because there is a correlation (even if it were strong) between the number of times a player has golfed and the number of strokes to complete 18 holes, it does not necessarily mean there is causation. There could be other factors like natural talent, practice intensity, etc. that affect the number of strokes, not just the number of times played.

Answer:

It is a weak negative correlation, and it is not likely causal.