Question

Which of the following pairs of variables have negative correlation under normal conditions?
A. Length and weight of fish
B. Catch per unit effort and fishing effort
C. Price and supply of fish
D. Price and Demand of fish
E. Temperature and depth of the ocean
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. A, B and D only
• B. B, D and E only
• C. B, C and D only
• D. A, C and E only

Hint:

Negative correlation = "Inverse relationship."
- Up Effort $\rightarrow$ Down CPUE.
- Up Price $\rightarrow$ Down Demand.
- Up Depth $\rightarrow$ Down Temperature.
Length-Weight is the classic example of a Positive correlation.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
A negative (inverse) correlation means that as one variable increases, the other variable decreases. The question asks to identify such pairs from the provided list.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

• A. Length and weight: Positive correlation. As a fish gets longer, it generally gets heavier. (Incorrect).

• B. CPUE and fishing effort: Negative correlation. In a typical fishery, as total fishing effort increases, the population size decreases, leading to a lower catch for every unit of effort expended.

• C. Price and supply: Generally positive in the supply curve (producers supply more at higher prices), but the question usually refers to the Law of Supply and Demand. Let's look at the options.

• D. Price and Demand: Negative correlation. According to the Law of Demand, as the price of a fish increases, the quantity demanded by consumers decreases.

• E. Temperature and depth: Negative correlation. In the ocean, temperature generally decreases as depth increases (due to the lack of sunlight penetration).

• Conclusion: Pairs B, D, and E show clear negative correlations.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct answer is B, D and E only.