Question

which graph represents data used in a linear regression that produces a correlation coefficient closest to -1? (followed by four scatter plot options with radio buttons)

Explanation:

A correlation coefficient of -1 means a perfect strong negative linear relationship: as x increases, y decreases, and data points lie nearly on a downward-sloping line.

1. The first graph shows a positive upward trend (correlation close to +1).
2. The second graph has no clear linear trend (correlation close to 0).
3. The third graph shows a strong negative downward trend, with points tightly clustered along a downward slope, matching a correlation near -1.
4. The fourth graph shows a positive upward trend with more scatter (correlation close to +1 but weaker than the first graph).

Answer:

The third scatter plot (the one with points decreasing from top-left to bottom-right in a tight linear pattern)