Question 35

Tennis balls that are older tend to have less bounce

This statement illustrates a negative correlation because it suggests that as the age of tennis balls increases, their ability to bounce decreases. This inverse relationship indicates that one variable (age) negatively impacts the other (bounce).

A) Cars that are older tend to have higher mileage

This option suggests a positive correlation, as it indicates that older cars generally accumulate more mileage. Therefore, as one variable (car age) increases, so does the other variable (mileage), which does not demonstrate a negative correlation.

B) Tennis balls that are older tend to have less bounce

This option correctly exemplifies a negative correlation between the age of the tennis balls and their bounce. The increase in age corresponds to a decrease in bounce ability, highlighting the inverse relationship between these two variables.

C) Shorter people tend to weigh less than taller people

While this statement may imply a trend, it does not specify a direct correlation. It suggests a potential relationship based on general observations but lacks clarity on whether the relationship is negative or positive, making it insufficient to demonstrate a negative correlation.

D) People who play baseball more tend to have more hits

This statement indicates a positive correlation, as more practice in baseball correlates with an increase in hits. It suggests that the frequency of playing positively affects performance, which does not demonstrate a negative correlation.

Conclusion

Option B is definitively the correct answer as it clearly shows a negative correlation, where an increase in the age of tennis balls results in a decrease in their bounce. The other options either imply positive correlations or fail to demonstrate a clear correlation, thereby not aligning with the definition of a negative correlation.