For the descriptionbelow, state the correlation clearly.(For example, state that"there is a positive correlation between variable A and variableB.") Then state whether the correlation is most likely due tocoincidence, a common underlyingcause, or a direct cause. Explain your answer.

In onestate, the number of unregistered handguns steadily increased over the past severalyears, and the crime rate increased as well.

What is thecorrelation?

A.

There is no correlation between the number of unregistered handguns and an increase in crime rate.

B.

There is weak negative correlation between the number of unregistered handguns and an increase in crime rate.

C.

There is positive correlation between the number of unregistered handguns and an increase in crime rate.

D.

There is strong negative correlation between the number of unregistered handguns and an increase in crime rate.