Question

The scatterplot shows reading test scores against IQ test scores for 14 fifth-grade children. There is one low outlier in the plot. What effect does this low outlier have on the correlation?

a. It makes the correlation closer to 1.

b. It makes the correlation closer to 0 but still positive.

c. It makes the correlation equal to 0.

d. It makes the correlation negative.

e. It has no effect on the correlation.

Short answer

The correct option is (b) It makes the correlation closer to$0$ but still positive.

Step-by-step solution

Given information

Explanation

It is well known that the existence of an outlier in a data collection lowers the linearity of the variables. And as the linearity of the relationship declines, so does the correlation's value. The presented plot shows a direct relationship between $IQ$ and test score, but due to the presence of the correlation, the correlation has become zero. Thus, the correct option is (b).