In a scatterplot, which description best represents a strong negative correlation?

• A. As $x$ increases, $y$ tends to increase in a tight linear pattern, with correlation close to $1$.
• B. As $x$ increases, $y$ tends to decrease in a tight linear pattern, with correlation close to $-1$.
• C. There is no clear linear trend between $x$ and $y$, with correlation close to $0$.
• D. As $x$ increases, $y$ decreases but with a very scattered pattern, with correlation close to $-0.2$.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that correlation measures the strength and direction of a linear relationship between two variables, \(x\) and \(y\).
2. Recall that a correlation close to \(+1\) indicates a strong positive linear relationship, where \(y\) increases as \(x\) increases.
3. Recognize that a correlation close to \(-1\) indicates a strong negative linear relationship, where \(y\) decreases as \(x\) increases in a tight linear pattern.
4. Note that a correlation close to \$0\( means there is no clear linear trend between \)x\( and \)y$.
5. Identify that a strong negative correlation is best described as: 'As \(x\) increases, \(y\) tends to decrease in a tight linear pattern, with correlation close to \(-1\).'