The correlation coefficient, \( r \), is closer to -1 when the scatter plot shows a falling trend and the scattered points are closely lined up. TRUE FALSE

Absolutely true! When the correlation coefficient \( r \) is close to -1, it indicates a strong negative linear relationship between the two variables. In a scatter plot, this means that as one variable increases, the other decreases, and the points are closely clustered along a downward sloping line. It's like a dramatic tango where one partner's move makes the other go the opposite direction! In practice, you might encounter this kind of correlation when analyzing data from various fields, such as finance, where rising interest rates might lead to declining stock prices. When you plot those data points, you'll notice that they tend to create that distinctly downward trend, making your analysis compelling and insightful!