Question

which describes a correct way to construct a scatterplot?

when analyzing the number of home runs that a baseball player hit over several seasons, the season is the independent variable.

when analyzing the number of umbrellas that are sold during days with varying amounts of rain, the number of umbrellas that are sold is the independent variable.

when analyzing the number of registered voters by age, age is the dependent variable.

when analyzing the number of students that ride the school bus each day of the week, the day is the dependent variable.

Explanation:

An independent variable is the factor that is controlled or changes on its own, while the dependent variable is the outcome that depends on the independent variable.

1. For home runs over seasons: The season progresses independently, and home runs depend on the season/player's performance that year, so season is independent.
2. For umbrellas sold vs rain: Rain amount affects umbrella sales, so umbrella sales are dependent, not independent.
3. For registered voters by age: Age is the independent factor that affects voter count, so age is not dependent.
4. For bus riders by day: Day is the independent, fixed factor, and rider count depends on the day, so day is not dependent.

Answer:

A. When analyzing the number of home runs that a baseball player hit over several seasons, the season is the independent variable.