Which type of correlation indicates that one variable increases as the other also increases?

Positive correlation indicates a relationship between two variables where, as one variable increases, the other variable also increases. This type of correlation is characterized by a direct association between the variables, meaning that they move in the same direction. For example, if you are studying the correlation between hours studied and exam scores, a positive correlation would suggest that more hours of studying generally lead to higher scores on the exam.

In contrast, negative correlation implies that as one variable increases, the other decreases, showcasing an inverse relationship. Zero correlation indicates no relationship between the variables, meaning changes in one do not affect the other. A causal relationship suggests that changes in one variable directly result in changes in another, which is not the same as correlation since correlation does not imply causation. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for interpreting data and drawing valid conclusions from research findings.