Question

A study finds that there is a positive correlation between height and math test scores. The researcher concludes that taller people are better at math. However, another researcher points out that height is also correlated with age, and age is correlated with greater knowledge of math. What issue does this example represent?

Answer 1

Answer:

Spurious relationship

Explanation:

In statistics a spurious relationship is a correlated mathematical  relationship of covariation between two variables or more which by themselves have no cause and effect relationship as a result of a coincidence or the existence of a third or confounding factor

The variables have covariation due to their correlation but they don't have a cause and effect relationship

An example of a spurious relationship is the increase in ice cream sales when there is an observed increase in the rate of drowning.