Question

suppose you were to collect data for each pair of variables. you want to make a scatterplot. which variable would best be suited as the explanatory variable and which as the response variable? why? what would you expect to see in the scatterplot? discuss the likely direction, form, and strength for parts a through d below.
a) apples: weight in grams, weight in ounces.
which variable would best be used as the explanatory variable and which as the response variable?
a. weight in ounces would best be used as the explanatory variable, and weight in grams the response variable, to predict the weight in ounces based on grams.
b. weight in grams would best be used as the explanatory variable, and weight in ounces the response variable, to predict the weight in grams based on ounces.
c. either weight in grams or weight in ounces can be the explanatory value. then the other will be the response variable, because weight in ounces can be predicted by weight in grams, and weight in grams can also be predicted by weight in ounces.
d. the terms explanatory and response variable do not apply to this situation.

Explanation:

Step1: Understand the relationship

The weight of an apple in grams and ounces are two different - unit measurements of the same quantity (weight). One can be converted to the other using a fixed conversion factor.

Step2: Analyze variable roles

Since we can predict the weight in ounces from the weight in grams and vice - versa using a conversion formula ($1\ ounce\approx28.35\ grams$), either variable can be used to explain the other. So, either weight in grams or weight in ounces can be the explanatory variable, and the other will be the response variable.

Answer:

C. Either weight in grams or weight in ounces can be the explanatory value. Then the other will be the response variable, because weight in ounces can be predicted by weight in grams, and weight in grams can also be predicted by weight in ounces.