\( 1 \leftarrow \begin{array}{l}\text { For the description below, state the correlation clearly. (For example, state that "there is a positive correlation between } \\ \text { variable A and variable B.") Then state whether the correlation is most likely due to coincidence, a common } \\ \text { underlying cause, or a direct cause. Explain your answer. } \\ \text { Statistics students find that as they spend more time studying, their test scores are higher. } \\ \text { What is the correlation? } \\ \text { A. There is positive correlation between the number of hours spent studying and their test scores. } \\ \text { B. There is strong negative correlation between the number of hours spent studying and their test scores. } \\ \text { C. There is weak negative correlation between the number of hours spent studying and their test scores. } \\ \text { D. There is no correlation between the number of hours spent studying and their test scores. }\end{array} . \begin{array}{l}\text {. }\end{array} \).

To analyze the given situation, we need to identify the correlation between the two variables: the number of hours spent studying and the test scores of statistics students. 1. **Identify the correlation:** - As students spend more time studying, their test scores tend to increase. This indicates a relationship where an increase in one variable (study time) is associated with an increase in another variable (test scores). 2. **State the correlation clearly:** - There is a positive correlation between the number of hours spent studying and their test scores. 3. **Determine the cause of the correlation:** - The correlation is most likely due to a common underlying cause. In this case, the underlying cause is the effort and knowledge gained from studying, which leads to better performance on tests. While it may seem that studying directly causes higher scores, the relationship is influenced by the quality of study, the effectiveness of study methods, and other factors such as prior knowledge and test-taking skills. 4. **Choose the correct option:** - Based on the analysis, the correct answer is: - **A. There is a positive correlation between the number of hours spent studying and their test scores.** In summary, the correlation is positive, and it is likely influenced by a common underlying cause related to the effectiveness of studying.