Question

In recent studies, each of the following variable pairs shows a high correlation. Which appear to share a cause-effect relationship? Check all that apply.
A. Score on a math test and performance of Japan's stock market
B. Basketball games played and total points scored
C. Quantity of food eaten and weight gained
D. Hours of television watched per day and shoe size

Answer 1

I think B&C

Answer 2

Well, the important thing to understand is that correlation does not imply causation. That is, just because two things seem to go together, it does not mean that one causes the other.
xkcd.com/552/

Answer 3

But yeah, this question is pretty obviously asking you about either things which have no relation at all or things that are closely tied.
Often, in the real world, it's not that obvious.
For example, there's a correlation between race and voting patterns. Statistically speaking, African-americans tend to vote Democrat. Can we say from that fact that race CAUSES those voting patterns? Some people might make that claim. Others would say that other factors such as socio-economic status, family history, and geography are more important in causing those trends.

Answer 4

Just ask yourself:
"Is it likely that my test score causes Japan's stock market to increase?"
"Is it likely that playing more games causes me to score more total points?"
"Is it likely that eating more food causes me to gain weight?"
"Is it likely that watching more TV causes me to have bigger feet?"