Each of these relationships reflects a correlation. Which relationship most likely reflects correlation but not causation?Choices:(A) For dental surgeons, performing more root canals is associated with numbing more patients' gums. (B) For dentists, treating more cavities is associated with whitening more teeth. (C) For dental hygienists, cleaning more teeth is associated with using more polishing toothpaste.
Q. Each of these relationships reflects a correlation. Which relationship most likely reflects correlation but not causation?Choices:(A) For dental surgeons, performing more root canals is associated with numbing more patients' gums. (B) For dentists, treating more cavities is associated with whitening more teeth. (C) For dental hygienists, cleaning more teeth is associated with using more polishing toothpaste.
Analyze Relationship (A): Analyze the relationship of option (A): Does performing more root canals cause the numbing of more patients' gums? The answer is Yes, because numbing is a direct part of the root canal procedure. This reflects both correlation and causation.
Analyze Relationship (B): Analyze the relationship of option (B): Does treating more cavities cause the whitening of more teeth? The answer is No, because whitening teeth is not a necessary part of treating cavities. While dentists who see more patients might do both more frequently, one does not cause the other. This reflects correlation but not causation.
Analyze Relationship (C): Analyze the relationship of option (C): Does cleaning more teeth cause the use of more polishing toothpaste? The answer is Yes, because using polishing toothpaste is a direct part of the teeth cleaning process. This reflects both correlation and causation.
Select Likely Option: Finally, select the option that most likely reflects correlation but not causation. The answer is option (B) 'For dentists, treating more cavities is associated with whitening more teeth.' as treating cavities does not cause teeth whitening.