Which of the following correlation coefficients represents the strongest relationship?

• A. $0.60$
• B. $-0.92$
• C. $-0.75$
• D. $0.85$

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that the strength of a correlation coefficient is determined by its absolute value, regardless of whether it is positive or negative. The closer the absolute value is to 1, the stronger the relationship.
2. List the given correlation coefficients and find their absolute values: 0.60, -0.92, -0.75, and 0.85. For example, the absolute value of -0.92 is 0.92.
3. Compare the absolute values: 0.60, 0.92, 0.75, and 0.85 to determine which is the largest.
4. Identify the correlation coefficient with the largest absolute value as representing the strongest relationship.
5. Note that the sign of the correlation coefficient indicates the direction of the relationship (positive or negative), but does not affect the strength.