Based on a graph showing a positive correlation between ice cream sales and drowning incidents, which of the following conclusions is best supported by the information in the graph?

• A. There is a positive correlation between ice cream sales and drowning incidents.
• B. Eating ice cream causes drowning incidents.
• C. There is no relationship between ice cream sales and drowning incidents.
• D. Drowning incidents cause people to buy more ice cream.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the difference between correlation and causation. Correlation means two variables move together, but it does not imply that one causes the other.
2. Step 2: Identify what the graph shows: a positive correlation between ice cream sales and drowning incidents, meaning both increase together.
3. Step 3: Evaluate the possible conclusions. Since the graph only shows correlation, it cannot prove that eating ice cream causes drowning or that drowning causes ice cream sales to rise.
4. Step 4: Consider the possibility of a lurking variable, such as warmer weather, which could increase both ice cream sales and swimming activities, leading to more drownings.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the best-supported statement is simply that there is a positive correlation between ice cream sales and drowning incidents, without implying causation.