Rationale
As price increases, the number of pairs of earrings sold tends to decrease.
The scatterplot illustrates an inverse relationship between price and the quantity of earrings sold, suggesting that as the price rises, consumer demand diminishes, leading to fewer sales.
A) As price increases, the number of pairs of earrings sold tends to remain constant.
This choice implies a lack of correlation between price and sales quantity, which contradicts the observed trend in the scatterplot. The data clearly indicates that sales do not remain constant but rather fluctuate with price changes.
B) As price increases, the number of pairs of earrings sold tends to decrease.
This choice accurately reflects the negative correlation depicted in the scatterplot. Higher prices are associated with lower quantities sold, highlighting a common economic principle where increased cost typically reduces consumer demand.
C) As price increases, the number of pairs of earrings sold tends to increase.
This statement incorrectly suggests a direct relationship between price and sales, which is contrary to the data shown in the scatterplot. Higher prices are expected to deter purchases, not encourage them.
D) As price decreases, the number of pairs of earrings sold tends to remain constant.
Similar to option A, this choice ignores the evident relationship in the scatterplot. A decrease in price would likely lead to an increase in sales, not a constant quantity sold.
E) As price decreases, the number of pairs of earrings sold tends to decrease.
This option contradicts basic economic principles and the observed data. Typically, lower prices stimulate demand, resulting in an increase in the quantity sold, rather than a decrease.
Conclusion
The scatterplot clearly shows that as prices increase, the sales of earrings tend to decline, confirming the inverse relationship typically found in market dynamics. Understanding this relationship is crucial for pricing strategies in retail, as it directly influences consumer purchasing behavior.
