Scatterplots

Front

What is a scatterplot?

Back

A scatterplot is a graphical representation of two variables, showing the relationship between them using points on a Cartesian plane.

Front

What does it mean if a scatterplot shows no correlation?

Back

No correlation means that there is no discernible relationship between the two variables being plotted; changes in one variable do not predict changes in the other.

Front

How can you identify a positive correlation in a scatterplot?

Back

A positive correlation is identified when the points on the scatterplot tend to rise from left to right, indicating that as one variable increases, the other variable also increases.

Front

How can you identify a negative correlation in a scatterplot?

Back

A negative correlation is identified when the points on the scatterplot tend to fall from left to right, indicating that as one variable increases, the other variable decreases.

Front

What is a line of best fit?

Back

A line of best fit is a straight line that best represents the data on a scatterplot, showing the general direction of the relationship between the variables.

Front

What does the slope of the line of best fit indicate?

Back

The slope of the line of best fit indicates the rate of change between the two variables; a steeper slope indicates a stronger relationship.

Front

What is the purpose of using a scatterplot in data analysis?

Back

The purpose of using a scatterplot is to visually assess the relationship between two quantitative variables and to identify patterns, trends, or correlations.

Front

What does it mean if the points on a scatterplot are tightly clustered around the line of best fit?

Back

If the points are tightly clustered around the line of best fit, it indicates a strong correlation between the two variables.

Front

What is the significance of outliers in a scatterplot?

Back

Outliers are data points that fall far from the general trend of the data; they can significantly affect the slope of the line of best fit and may indicate anomalies in the data.

Front

How can you use a scatterplot to make predictions?

Back

You can use a scatterplot to make predictions by extending the line of best fit to estimate the value of one variable based on the value of the other variable.