1. Create a scatterplot to investigate the relation between a diamond’s weight and its price. Paste the scatterplot here. Ensure the axes are labeled, etc.
2. How would you describe the correlation depicted in the scatterplot? Include the calculation of the estimated correlation coefficient.
3. What is a best-fit line? How would you apply a best-fit line to this data set? What cautions would you need to keep in mind when making predictions with a best-fit line for this data set?
4. Can we say that there is a causal relation between diamond weight and price—why or why not?
5. Several things besides smoking have been shown to be probabilistic causal factors in lung cancer—for example, exposure to asbestos and exposure to radon gas, both of which are found in many homes, can cause lung cancer. Suppose you meet a person who lives in a home that has a high radon level and insulation that contains asbestos. The person tells you, “I smoke, too, because I figure I’m doomed to cancer anyway.” What would you in response?
6. In your area of research interest, what are some probable correlations that you will need to explore?