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Spurious correlation #4,747 · View random

A linear line chart with years as the X-axis and two variables on the Y-axis. The first variable is Popularity of the first name Rex and the second variable is Air pollution in Missoula, Montana.  The chart goes from 1980 to 2022, and the two variables track closely in value over that time. Small Image
Download png
, svg

AI explanation

The more people named Rex, the more likely they are to own rambunctious pet dinosaurs, leading to an unexpected spike in prehistoric car emissions in Missoula.

Model: dalle-3
Prompt: Generate an image of a steampunk-inspired cityscape set in Missoula, Montana, where pet dinosaurs roam the streets amidst Victorian-style buildings and steam-powered vehicles. The city should be engulfed in a smog of prehistoric car emissions, with eccentric citizens and their pet dinosaurs adding to the air pollution. The dinosaurs could be depicted with mechanical enhancements to fit the steampunk theme, such as gears, copper piping, and industrial trimmings, while the city streets teem with activity and chaotic scenes of dino-pet ownership in a fantastical and whimsical setting. The depiction should include only scenes, people, and objects, it should not include text or speech bubbles.
This image generation prompt was also generated by AI, using the following sequence:

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You select one of a few potential scene descriptors that seems to go along with the variables described. You respond only with the scene descriptions provided and say nothing else.
User prompt: Here are two variables: Popularity of the first name Rex and Air pollution in Missoula, Montana. Given these, which of the following image style descriptions seems most appropriate? Pick the one that seems to be related to one of the variables at hand. Please respond with only one of the following potential descriptions: Celtic art Parallax art Woodblock painting Celtic art Steampunk
ChatGPT: Steampunk

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You describe simple visual scenes that depict the two variables stated. You combine both variables into one scene.
User prompt: Please describe a visual scene that prominently depicts both Popularity of the first name Rex and Air pollution in Missoula, Montana, in the following situation: The more people named Rex, the more likely they are to own rambunctious pet dinosaurs, leading to an unexpected spike in prehistoric car emissions in Missoula.. Keep the description simple.
ChatGPT: In Missoula, Montana, the popularity of the name Rex has surged, and more and more households are home to pet dinosaurs. The city's air is thick with prehistoric car emissions as the Rex owners take their rambunctious dinosaurs for a ride, adding to the air pollution in the city.

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You write and improve image generation prompts for DALLE-3. You maintain the same subjects, but enhance the visuals.
User prompt: Please respond with an image generation prompt that would be likely to create an interesting visual using DALLE-3, using the following style: [ Steampunk ] and depicting this scene: In Missoula, Montana, the popularity of the name Rex has surged, and more and more households are home to pet dinosaurs. The city's air is thick with prehistoric car emissions as the Rex owners take their rambunctious dinosaurs for a ride, adding to the air pollution in the city. Keep the visual depiction simple. Do not include any words or speech bubbles.
ChatGPT: Generate an image of a steampunk-inspired cityscape set in Missoula, Montana, where pet dinosaurs roam the streets amidst Victorian-style buildings and steam-powered vehicles. The city should be engulfed in a smog of prehistoric car emissions, with eccentric citizens and their pet dinosaurs adding to the air pollution. The dinosaurs could be depicted with mechanical enhancements to fit the steampunk theme, such as gears, copper piping, and industrial trimmings, while the city streets teem with activity and chaotic scenes of dino-pet ownership in a fantastical and whimsical setting.

*Variations in the User Prompts from chart to chart are just the result of random number generation in Python. I wrote a few arrays of various styles and methods to ask questions to change up the results. Every time this site writes an explanation or generates an image, the script picks from each at random.

I sequence the requests into multiple prompts because I find GPT 3.5 to perform much better with short, well-managed contexts. Thus, I track the context directly in Python and only ask ChatGPT targeted questions.

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106 (fine-tuned)
System prompt: You provide humorous responses in the form of plausible sounding explanations for correlations. You assume the correlation is causative for the purpose of the explanation even if it is ridiculous. You do not chat with the user, you only reply with the causal connection explanation and nothing else.
User prompt: Please make up a funny explanation for how an increase in Popularity of the first name Rex caused Air pollution in Missoula, Montana to increase.

AI academic paper

(Because p < 0.01)
Rex Marks the Spot: A Correlation between the Popularity of the Name Rex and Air Pollution in Missoula, Montana

Journal of Quirky Environmental Science

Jan 2024

Reminder: This paper is AI-generated. Not real!
Quick note: This sequence is long and repetitive. That's how the prompt engineering works for this one. I manage the output in Python to format it into this PDF.




Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a researcher writing an academic paper.You write titles and abstracts of goofy academic research papers.
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, and add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please draft the title and abstract of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Rex and Air pollution in Missoula, Montana. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences.

Make the title punny if you can come up with clever pun. If not, make it sound serious.

Your research team used data from US Social Security Administration and Environmental Protection Agency to assess this nagging question. You found a correlation coefficient of 0.8093854 and p < 0.01 for 1980 to 2022.

Please respond in this format (replace "Lorem ipsum dolor sit" with your title and abstract)

[[TITLE]]
Lorem ipsum dolor sit

[[ABSTRACT]]
Lorem ipsum dolor sit



ChatGPT:
[[TITLE]]
"Rex Marks the Spot: A Correlation between the Popularity of the Name Rex and Air Pollution in Missoula, Montana"

[[ABSTRACT]]
The prevalence of air pollution in urban areas has been a pressing issue, impacting not only the environment but also public health. In this study, we sought to bring some levity to this serious matter by exploring an unusual correlation: the relationship between the popularity of the first name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula, Montana. Leveraging data from the US Social Security Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency, we set out to address the burning question of whether there is any connection between the two seemingly unrelated variables.

Our findings revealed a surprising statistical relationship, with a correlation coefficient of 0.8093854 and p < 0.01 over the period from 1980 to 2022. This statistically significant correlation between the popularity of the name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula raises eyebrows, prompting both intrigue and curiosity. The results of our study suggest that as the number of individuals named "Rex" in Missoula rises, so does the concentration of pollutants in the air.

One could say that the correlation is quite "air-rex"! This unexpected association calls for further investigation and sparks discussions about the potential behavioral, societal, or environmental factors underlying this curious phenomenon. Our hope is that this study may serve as a lighthearted reminder of the importance of exploring unexpected connections, and perhaps lead to more "aerodynamic" research in the future.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a researcher writing an academic paper.You draft the introduction section of an academic research paper.
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, or add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please make up the introduction section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Rex and Air pollution in Missoula, Montana. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences. Sneak in some jokes and clever puns about science, research, statistics, and the variables.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
"Rex Marks the Spot: A Correlation between the Popularity of the Name Rex and Air Pollution in Missoula, Montana"

[[ABSTRACT]]
The prevalence of air pollution in urban areas has been a pressing issue, impacting not only the environment but also public health. In this study, we sought to bring some levity to this serious matter by exploring an unusual correlation: the relationship between the popularity of the first name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula, Montana. Leveraging data from the US Social Security Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency, we set out to address the burning question of whether there is any connection between the two seemingly unrelated variables.

Our findings revealed a surprising statistical relationship, with a correlation coefficient of 0.8093854 and p < 0.01 over the period from 1980 to 2022. This statistically significant correlation between the popularity of the name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula raises eyebrows, prompting both intrigue and curiosity. The results of our study suggest that as the number of individuals named "Rex" in Missoula rises, so does the concentration of pollutants in the air.

One could say that the correlation is quite "air-rex"! This unexpected association calls for further investigation and sparks discussions about the potential behavioral, societal, or environmental factors underlying this curious phenomenon. Our hope is that this study may serve as a lighthearted reminder of the importance of exploring unexpected connections, and perhaps lead to more "aerodynamic" research in the future.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[INTRODUCTION]]



ChatGPT:
Introduction

Popularity contests are not just for high school hallways, they can also be found in the world of research! The twists and turns of statistical analysis can sometimes lead us down unexpected paths, and our study is no exception. In this paper, we present a peculiar yet intriguing exploration of the relationship between the popularity of the first name "Rex" and air pollution levels in the serene town of Missoula, Montana. The plethora of puns waiting to be made in this area of research is enough to make a statistician's heart race – but let's keep things a'breathable, shall we?

As Mark Twain once said, "The report of my correlation with air pollution has been greatly exaggerated." Yet, our study uncovered a surprising and statistically significant correlation between the occurrence of the name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula over the past few decades. While some may find this correlation to be quite, well, "poult"ed, the numbers don't lie! It’s as if the air itself is whispering, "Rex marks the spot!"

Our investigation, using data from the US Social Security Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency, revealed an intriguing correlation coefficient of 0.8093854 and p < 0.01, spanning the years between 1980 and 2022. We were initially as skeptical as a chemist in the presence of a suspicious new compound, but the results were undeniable. This unexpected relationship beckons us to delve deeper into the "air-ritating" secrets that may be lingering behind the scenes.

You might be wondering, why Missoula? Why "Rex"? Why air pollution? Well, as they say, sometimes science takes us to the oddest places – and in this case, what a breath of fresh air it is to explore this uncharted territory. Our hope is that this study serves as a whimsical reminder of the marvels that can arise from the most unforeseen connections, inspiring future research to take flight in even more unusual directions.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a researcher writing an academic paper.You draft a literature review section of an academic research paper, that starts out dry for the first few sentences but then becomes hilarious and goofy.
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, or add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please make up a literature review section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Rex and Air pollution in Missoula, Montana. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences.

Speak in the present tense for this section (the authors find...), as is common in academic research paper literature reviews. Name the sources in a format similar to this: In "Book," the authors find lorem and ipsum.

Make up the lorem and ipsum part, but make it sound related to the topic at hand.

Start by naming serious-sounding studies by authors like Smith, Doe, and Jones - but then quickly devolve. Name some real non-fiction books that would be related to the topic. Then name some real fiction books that sound like they could be related. Then name some cartoons and childrens' shows that you watched that are related to the topic.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
"Rex Marks the Spot: A Correlation between the Popularity of the Name Rex and Air Pollution in Missoula, Montana"

[[ABSTRACT]]
The prevalence of air pollution in urban areas has been a pressing issue, impacting not only the environment but also public health. In this study, we sought to bring some levity to this serious matter by exploring an unusual correlation: the relationship between the popularity of the first name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula, Montana. Leveraging data from the US Social Security Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency, we set out to address the burning question of whether there is any connection between the two seemingly unrelated variables.

Our findings revealed a surprising statistical relationship, with a correlation coefficient of 0.8093854 and p < 0.01 over the period from 1980 to 2022. This statistically significant correlation between the popularity of the name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula raises eyebrows, prompting both intrigue and curiosity. The results of our study suggest that as the number of individuals named "Rex" in Missoula rises, so does the concentration of pollutants in the air.

One could say that the correlation is quite "air-rex"! This unexpected association calls for further investigation and sparks discussions about the potential behavioral, societal, or environmental factors underlying this curious phenomenon. Our hope is that this study may serve as a lighthearted reminder of the importance of exploring unexpected connections, and perhaps lead to more "aerodynamic" research in the future.

-------

And here is the introduction section that led to this literature review:
[[INTRODUCTION]]
Introduction
Popularity contests are not just for high school hallways, they can also be found in the world of research! The twists and turns of statistical analysis can sometimes lead us down unexpected paths, and our study is no exception. In this paper, we present a peculiar yet intriguing exploration of the relationship between the popularity of the first name "Rex" and air pollution levels in the serene town of Missoula, Montana. The plethora of puns waiting to be made in this area of research is enough to make a statistician's heart race – but let's keep things a'breathable, shall we?
As Mark Twain once said, "The report of my correlation with air pollution has been greatly exaggerated." Yet, our study uncovered a surprising and statistically significant correlation between the occurrence of the name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula over the past few decades. While some may find this correlation to be quite, well, "poult"ed, the numbers don't lie! It’s as if the air itself is whispering, "Rex marks the spot!"
Our investigation, using data from the US Social Security Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency, revealed an intriguing correlation coefficient of 0.8093854 and p < 0.01, spanning the years between 1980 and 2022. We were initially as skeptical as a chemist in the presence of a suspicious new compound, but the results were undeniable. This unexpected relationship beckons us to delve deeper into the "air-ritating" secrets that may be lingering behind the scenes.
You might be wondering, why Missoula? Why "Rex"? Why air pollution? Well, as they say, sometimes science takes us to the oddest places – and in this case, what a breath of fresh air it is to explore this uncharted territory. Our hope is that this study serves as a whimsical reminder of the marvels that can arise from the most unforeseen connections, inspiring future research to take flight in even more unusual directions.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]



ChatGPT:
[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

The connection between a person's name and environmental factors has been a matter of considerable intrigue for researchers across various disciplines. In "The Power of Name: Unraveling the Influence of Personal Monikers on Life Outcomes," Smith and Doe delved into the societal and psychological implications of individuals' names, touching on everything from career success to emotional well-being. Meanwhile, Jones et al. explored the impact of environmental factors on public health in "Air Pollution and Its Adverse Effects on Respiratory Health," shedding light on the detrimental effects of air pollutants on human respiratory systems. These serious studies laid the groundwork for our somewhat unorthodox investigation into the correlation between the popularity of the first name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula, Montana.

As we traverse this uncharted territory, it's essential to maintain a sense of humor and levity, much like in "The Joy of Pun: A Humorous Exploration of Linguistic Wordplay" by Jeston and HaHa. After all, what's in a name, if not a potential punchline waiting to be cracked? Now, let's "air" our thoughts on the studies that have paved the way for our "breath-taking" investigation.

Moving away from the strictly academic realm, we may find unexpected insights in works of fiction. In "Cloudy with a Chance of Rex," a whimsical children's book by Author XYZ, the town of Missoula experiences a peculiar weather phenomenon whenever the name "Rex" becomes more prevalent. While purely fictional, the parallels are uncanny, and the book's weather-related whimsy echoes our own unexpected findings. Furthermore, the renowned "Rex T. Dinosaur" series by Novelist ABC invites readers into a world of prehistoric adventures, although it may seem like a distant land from the urban setting of Missoula, the resonances between the rise of "Rex" and environmental challenges are striking.

Bringing a touch of nostalgia, who can forget the misadventures of "Rex the Pollution Fighter" from the beloved children's show "EcoPals"? The show, aimed at educating young audiences about environmental responsibility, inadvertently laid the groundwork for our exploration of the interplay between human behavior and air quality, in a way that can only be described as "punny business."

The convergence of these seemingly incongruous sources sets the stage for our investigation, as we seek to unravel the peculiar correlation that binds the name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula. With a wink and a nod to the unexpected twists of statistical analysis, our study aims to shed light on this unconventional association while not losing sight of the seriousness of the environmental concerns at stake.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a researcher writing an academic paper.You draft the methodology section of an academic research paper.
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, or add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please make up the methodology section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Rex and Air pollution in Missoula, Montana. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences. Sneak in some jokes and clever puns about science, research, statistics, and the variables.

Your research team collected data from all across the internet, but mostly just used information from US Social Security Administration and Environmental Protection Agency . You used data from 1980 to 2022

Make up the research methods you don't know. Make them a bit goofy and convoluted.

Here is the title, abstract, and introduction of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
"Rex Marks the Spot: A Correlation between the Popularity of the Name Rex and Air Pollution in Missoula, Montana"

[[ABSTRACT]]
The prevalence of air pollution in urban areas has been a pressing issue, impacting not only the environment but also public health. In this study, we sought to bring some levity to this serious matter by exploring an unusual correlation: the relationship between the popularity of the first name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula, Montana. Leveraging data from the US Social Security Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency, we set out to address the burning question of whether there is any connection between the two seemingly unrelated variables.

Our findings revealed a surprising statistical relationship, with a correlation coefficient of 0.8093854 and p < 0.01 over the period from 1980 to 2022. This statistically significant correlation between the popularity of the name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula raises eyebrows, prompting both intrigue and curiosity. The results of our study suggest that as the number of individuals named "Rex" in Missoula rises, so does the concentration of pollutants in the air.

One could say that the correlation is quite "air-rex"! This unexpected association calls for further investigation and sparks discussions about the potential behavioral, societal, or environmental factors underlying this curious phenomenon. Our hope is that this study may serve as a lighthearted reminder of the importance of exploring unexpected connections, and perhaps lead to more "aerodynamic" research in the future.

[[INTRODUCTION]]
Introduction
Popularity contests are not just for high school hallways, they can also be found in the world of research! The twists and turns of statistical analysis can sometimes lead us down unexpected paths, and our study is no exception. In this paper, we present a peculiar yet intriguing exploration of the relationship between the popularity of the first name "Rex" and air pollution levels in the serene town of Missoula, Montana. The plethora of puns waiting to be made in this area of research is enough to make a statistician's heart race – but let's keep things a'breathable, shall we?
As Mark Twain once said, "The report of my correlation with air pollution has been greatly exaggerated." Yet, our study uncovered a surprising and statistically significant correlation between the occurrence of the name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula over the past few decades. While some may find this correlation to be quite, well, "poult"ed, the numbers don't lie! It’s as if the air itself is whispering, "Rex marks the spot!"
Our investigation, using data from the US Social Security Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency, revealed an intriguing correlation coefficient of 0.8093854 and p < 0.01, spanning the years between 1980 and 2022. We were initially as skeptical as a chemist in the presence of a suspicious new compound, but the results were undeniable. This unexpected relationship beckons us to delve deeper into the "air-ritating" secrets that may be lingering behind the scenes.
You might be wondering, why Missoula? Why "Rex"? Why air pollution? Well, as they say, sometimes science takes us to the oddest places – and in this case, what a breath of fresh air it is to explore this uncharted territory. Our hope is that this study serves as a whimsical reminder of the marvels that can arise from the most unforeseen connections, inspiring future research to take flight in even more unusual directions.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[METHODOLOGY]]



ChatGPT:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

Participants:
We amassed data from the US Social Security Administration, where the moniker "Rex" and its relative popularity were meticulously documented. As for our second protagonist, the Environmental Protection Agency graciously provided us with air pollution measurements in Missoula, Montana.

To begin our zany quest, we embarked on a statistical treasure hunt, scouring the vast databases of the US Social Security Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency. Our first stop was the US Social Security Administration's website, where we waded through an ocean of names to unearth the frequency of the name "Rex" from 1980 to 2022. It was a bit like searching for a needle in a haystack, topped with the occasional "T-Rex" joke to keep the spirits high.

Next on our expedition was the Environmental Protection Agency's databases, where we unraveled air pollution data in Missoula, Montana. We could almost smell the musty air through our computer screens as we sifted through years of pollutant measurements. It was a breath-taking experience, just not in the most literal sense. If only we could've held our noses!

Data Analysis:
Once our data had been wrangled and corralled, we locked ourselves in a room with our statistical software, ready to uncover the mysteries of the "Rex" and air pollution conundrum. The numbers were crunched, the formulas were fervently applied, and the results eventually surfaced, like fossils coming to light after a particularly rigorous excavation.

We deployed a Pearson correlation coefficient analysis to identify any potential relationship between the popularity of the name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula. Our excitement rose with every tick of the statistical clock as we unveiled the surprising correlation coefficient of 0.8093854 and a p-value less than 0.01! It's as if the data itself couldn't help but "paws" for dramatic effect.

Control Variables:
To ensure our findings didn't leave us "dino-sore," we controlled for potential confounding variables. We considered factors such as population density, industrial activity, and even the presence of other prehistoric-sounding names in the region. This step was essential to validate that the "Rex" and air pollution connection wasn't just a "fossil" made from statistical noise.

Conclusion:
Our methodology encapsulated the quirks and curiosity that drove this unexpected exploration of the "Rex" and air pollution correlation. In the spirit of keeping things light, we embraced the unexpected twists and turns that research can bring. After all, sometimes in the world of science, the most outlandish hypotheses lead to the most captivating discoveries!

That's the end of the methodology, but hey, I rex you have some questions!


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a researcher writing an academic paper.You draft the results section of an academic research paper. You speak in the past tense (you found...).
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, or add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please make up the results section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Rex and Air pollution in Missoula, Montana. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences. Sneak in some jokes and clever puns about science, research, statistics, and the variables.

Your research team collected data from all across the internet, but mostly just used information from US Social Security Administration and Environmental Protection Agency .

For the time period 1980 to 2022, you found a correlation 0.8093854, r-squared of 0.6551047, and p < 0.01.

One figure will be included. The figure (Fig. 1) is a scatterplot showing the strong correlation between the two variables. You don't need to specify where; I will add the figure.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
"Rex Marks the Spot: A Correlation between the Popularity of the Name Rex and Air Pollution in Missoula, Montana"

[[ABSTRACT]]
The prevalence of air pollution in urban areas has been a pressing issue, impacting not only the environment but also public health. In this study, we sought to bring some levity to this serious matter by exploring an unusual correlation: the relationship between the popularity of the first name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula, Montana. Leveraging data from the US Social Security Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency, we set out to address the burning question of whether there is any connection between the two seemingly unrelated variables.

Our findings revealed a surprising statistical relationship, with a correlation coefficient of 0.8093854 and p < 0.01 over the period from 1980 to 2022. This statistically significant correlation between the popularity of the name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula raises eyebrows, prompting both intrigue and curiosity. The results of our study suggest that as the number of individuals named "Rex" in Missoula rises, so does the concentration of pollutants in the air.

One could say that the correlation is quite "air-rex"! This unexpected association calls for further investigation and sparks discussions about the potential behavioral, societal, or environmental factors underlying this curious phenomenon. Our hope is that this study may serve as a lighthearted reminder of the importance of exploring unexpected connections, and perhaps lead to more "aerodynamic" research in the future.

-------

And here is the methodology section that led to this result:
[[METHODOLOGY]]
Introduction
Popularity contests are not just for high school hallways, they can also be found in the world of research! The twists and turns of statistical analysis can sometimes lead us down unexpected paths, and our study is no exception. In this paper, we present a peculiar yet intriguing exploration of the relationship between the popularity of the first name "Rex" and air pollution levels in the serene town of Missoula, Montana. The plethora of puns waiting to be made in this area of research is enough to make a statistician's heart race – but let's keep things a'breathable, shall we?
As Mark Twain once said, "The report of my correlation with air pollution has been greatly exaggerated." Yet, our study uncovered a surprising and statistically significant correlation between the occurrence of the name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula over the past few decades. While some may find this correlation to be quite, well, "poult"ed, the numbers don't lie! It’s as if the air itself is whispering, "Rex marks the spot!"
Our investigation, using data from the US Social Security Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency, revealed an intriguing correlation coefficient of 0.8093854 and p < 0.01, spanning the years between 1980 and 2022. We were initially as skeptical as a chemist in the presence of a suspicious new compound, but the results were undeniable. This unexpected relationship beckons us to delve deeper into the "air-ritating" secrets that may be lingering behind the scenes.
You might be wondering, why Missoula? Why "Rex"? Why air pollution? Well, as they say, sometimes science takes us to the oddest places – and in this case, what a breath of fresh air it is to explore this uncharted territory. Our hope is that this study serves as a whimsical reminder of the marvels that can arise from the most unforeseen connections, inspiring future research to take flight in even more unusual directions.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[RESULTS]]



ChatGPT:

[[RESULTS]]

The analysis of the data amassed from the US Social Security Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency uncovered a striking correlation between the prevalence of the first name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula, Montana. The correlation coefficient of 0.8093854 suggests a strong positive relationship between these two seemingly unrelated variables. The r-squared value of 0.6551047 indicates that approximately 65.5% of the variation in air pollution levels in Missoula can be explained by the popularity of the name "Rex" over the period from 1980 to 2022.

In this study, as the number of individuals bearing the moniker "Rex" increased, so did the concentration of pollutants in the air. One might say that the popularity of the name "Rex" was quite the breath of fresh air for our analysis! The p-value of less than 0.01 solidifies the statistical significance of this surprising finding.

Figure 1 (to be added) depicts the scatterplot illustrating the robust association between the popularity of the first name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula. The figure serves as visual evidence of the striking correlation uncovered in this study.

Our results shine a light on the unanticipated ties between the frequency of the name "Rex" and air pollution, prompting thought-provoking discussions and inspiring further investigation. This unexpected correlation calls for a "breath of fresh heir" in the realm of research, as it hints at complex underlying factors that warrant deeper exploration. The findings of this study not only pique scientific interest but also serve as a reminder of the whimsical and unforeseen connections that await discovery in the vast landscape of research.

The statistically significant relationship between the popularity of the first name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula opens new avenues for humorous speculation and serious inquiry, marking this peculiar correlation as a notable "air-ode" to the eclectic world of research.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a researcher writing an academic paper.You draft the discussion section of an academic research paper.
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, or add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please make up the discussion section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Rex and Air pollution in Missoula, Montana. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences. Sneak in some jokes and clever puns about science, research, statistics, and the variables.

Limit your response to 500 tokens.

Here are the title, abstract, literature review, and results sections. Please harken back to 1-2 of the goofy items in the literature review, but pretend to take them completely seriously. Discuss how your results supported the prior research.

Do not write a conclusion. I will add a conclusion after this.

[[TITLE]]
"Rex Marks the Spot: A Correlation between the Popularity of the Name Rex and Air Pollution in Missoula, Montana"

[[ABSTRACT]]
The prevalence of air pollution in urban areas has been a pressing issue, impacting not only the environment but also public health. In this study, we sought to bring some levity to this serious matter by exploring an unusual correlation: the relationship between the popularity of the first name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula, Montana. Leveraging data from the US Social Security Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency, we set out to address the burning question of whether there is any connection between the two seemingly unrelated variables.

Our findings revealed a surprising statistical relationship, with a correlation coefficient of 0.8093854 and p < 0.01 over the period from 1980 to 2022. This statistically significant correlation between the popularity of the name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula raises eyebrows, prompting both intrigue and curiosity. The results of our study suggest that as the number of individuals named "Rex" in Missoula rises, so does the concentration of pollutants in the air.

One could say that the correlation is quite "air-rex"! This unexpected association calls for further investigation and sparks discussions about the potential behavioral, societal, or environmental factors underlying this curious phenomenon. Our hope is that this study may serve as a lighthearted reminder of the importance of exploring unexpected connections, and perhaps lead to more "aerodynamic" research in the future.

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]
The connection between a person's name and environmental factors has been a matter of considerable intrigue for researchers across various disciplines. In "The Power of Name: Unraveling the Influence of Personal Monikers on Life Outcomes," Smith and Doe delved into the societal and psychological implications of individuals' names, touching on everything from career success to emotional well-being. Meanwhile, Jones et al. explored the impact of environmental factors on public health in "Air Pollution and Its Adverse Effects on Respiratory Health," shedding light on the detrimental effects of air pollutants on human respiratory systems. These serious studies laid the groundwork for our somewhat unorthodox investigation into the correlation between the popularity of the first name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula, Montana.
As we traverse this uncharted territory, it's essential to maintain a sense of humor and levity, much like in "The Joy of Pun: A Humorous Exploration of Linguistic Wordplay" by Jeston and HaHa. After all, what's in a name, if not a potential punchline waiting to be cracked? Now, let's "air" our thoughts on the studies that have paved the way for our "breath-taking" investigation.
Moving away from the strictly academic realm, we may find unexpected insights in works of fiction. In "Cloudy with a Chance of Rex," a whimsical children's book by Author XYZ, the town of Missoula experiences a peculiar weather phenomenon whenever the name "Rex" becomes more prevalent. While purely fictional, the parallels are uncanny, and the book's weather-related whimsy echoes our own unexpected findings. Furthermore, the renowned "Rex T. Dinosaur" series by Novelist ABC invites readers into a world of prehistoric adventures, although it may seem like a distant land from the urban setting of Missoula, the resonances between the rise of "Rex" and environmental challenges are striking.
Bringing a touch of nostalgia, who can forget the misadventures of "Rex the Pollution Fighter" from the beloved children's show "EcoPals"? The show, aimed at educating young audiences about environmental responsibility, inadvertently laid the groundwork for our exploration of the interplay between human behavior and air quality, in a way that can only be described as "punny business."
The convergence of these seemingly incongruous sources sets the stage for our investigation, as we seek to unravel the peculiar correlation that binds the name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula. With a wink and a nod to the unexpected twists of statistical analysis, our study aims to shed light on this unconventional association while not losing sight of the seriousness of the environmental concerns at stake.

[[RESULTS]]
The analysis of the data amassed from the US Social Security Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency uncovered a striking correlation between the prevalence of the first name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula, Montana. The correlation coefficient of 0.8093854 suggests a strong positive relationship between these two seemingly unrelated variables. The r-squared value of 0.6551047 indicates that approximately 65.5% of the variation in air pollution levels in Missoula can be explained by the popularity of the name "Rex" over the period from 1980 to 2022.
In this study, as the number of individuals bearing the moniker "Rex" increased, so did the concentration of pollutants in the air. One might say that the popularity of the name "Rex" was quite the breath of fresh air for our analysis! The p-value of less than 0.01 solidifies the statistical significance of this surprising finding.
Figure 1 (to be added) depicts the scatterplot illustrating the robust association between the popularity of the first name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula. The figure serves as visual evidence of the striking correlation uncovered in this study.
Our results shine a light on the unanticipated ties between the frequency of the name "Rex" and air pollution, prompting thought-provoking discussions and inspiring further investigation. This unexpected correlation calls for a "breath of fresh heir" in the realm of research, as it hints at complex underlying factors that warrant deeper exploration. The findings of this study not only pique scientific interest but also serve as a reminder of the whimsical and unforeseen connections that await discovery in the vast landscape of research.
The statistically significant relationship between the popularity of the first name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula opens new avenues for humorous speculation and serious inquiry, marking this peculiar correlation as a notable "air-ode" to the eclectic world of research.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[DISCUSSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[DISCUSSION]]

In this study, we set out to explore the unexpected correlation between the prevalence of the first name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula, Montana. Our findings have unveiled a surprising statistical relationship, with a correlation coefficient of 0.8093854 and a p-value of less than 0.01, affirming the robust connection between these seemingly unrelated variables.

The existence of a correlation implies a potential causation, although it's essential to approach this with the caution it merits. After all, we wouldn't want to jump to conclusions faster than a speeding pollutant! Building on the prior research, our results align with the notion that environmental factors can intertwine with unexpected societal and psychological influences, not unlike a complex chemical reaction taking place when no one's looking.

Our findings echo the sentiments espoused by Smith and Doe in "The Power of Name," who highlighted the intricate interplay between personal monikers and life outcomes. Just as one wouldn't expect an enthusiastic environmentalist by the name of "Rex," we are faced with the novel realization that there might indeed be a "Rex-terous" impact of this name on the surrounding air quality.

One might quip that our study has definitively pinpointed the "Rex-onaire" effect, where the ascent of individuals named "Rex" coincides with the rise in air pollution. As we delve deeper into the implications of this unexpected association, we are compelled to consider the potential behavioral, societal, and environmental factors driving this correlation. This study not only brings to light an unconventional statistical relationship but also encourages us to delve into the "aerosol" of societal influences that may underlie this intriguing phenomenon.

Moreover, our results serve as a resounding testimony to the profound influence of seemingly trivial aspects, much like the initial building blocks of a complex mathematical model. Just as every data point contributes to the formation of a comprehensive statistical analysis, the presence of "Rex" may hold more weight in shaping the urban environment than previously thought.

Our study does more than just scratch the surface of this correlation; it delves into the core of unexpected connections and beckons researchers to "air" on the side of curiosity. The "Rex-ifying" significance of this correlation prompts contemplation on the intricate, multifaceted nature of societal and environmental interactions. This quirky link stands as a testament to the "punny" and unforeseen discoveries that await across the vast landscape of scientific inquiry.

Our findings highlight the need for further investigation into the nuanced interplay between social dynamics and environmental phenomena, emphasizing the importance of maintaining an open mind and being receptive to the unexpected twists and turns that scientific inquiry may reveal. If nothing else, our study stands as a whimsical reminder of the humorous and thought-provoking avenues that await exploration in the world of research.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a researcher writing an academic paper.You draft the discussion section of goofy academic research papers that sounds like it belongs based on the title and abstract provided.
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, or add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please make up a short conclusion of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Popularity of the first name Rex and Air pollution in Missoula, Montana. You can't resist a good dad joke. Add a relevant dad joke related to the content every couple of sentences. Sneak in some jokes and clever puns about science, research, statistics, and the variables.

Limit your response to 300 tokens. At the very end, assert that no more research is needed in this area.

Here are the title, abstract, introduction, and results sections.
[[TITLE]]
"Rex Marks the Spot: A Correlation between the Popularity of the Name Rex and Air Pollution in Missoula, Montana"

[[ABSTRACT]]
The prevalence of air pollution in urban areas has been a pressing issue, impacting not only the environment but also public health. In this study, we sought to bring some levity to this serious matter by exploring an unusual correlation: the relationship between the popularity of the first name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula, Montana. Leveraging data from the US Social Security Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency, we set out to address the burning question of whether there is any connection between the two seemingly unrelated variables.

Our findings revealed a surprising statistical relationship, with a correlation coefficient of 0.8093854 and p < 0.01 over the period from 1980 to 2022. This statistically significant correlation between the popularity of the name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula raises eyebrows, prompting both intrigue and curiosity. The results of our study suggest that as the number of individuals named "Rex" in Missoula rises, so does the concentration of pollutants in the air.

One could say that the correlation is quite "air-rex"! This unexpected association calls for further investigation and sparks discussions about the potential behavioral, societal, or environmental factors underlying this curious phenomenon. Our hope is that this study may serve as a lighthearted reminder of the importance of exploring unexpected connections, and perhaps lead to more "aerodynamic" research in the future.

[[INTRDUCTION]]
Introduction
Popularity contests are not just for high school hallways, they can also be found in the world of research! The twists and turns of statistical analysis can sometimes lead us down unexpected paths, and our study is no exception. In this paper, we present a peculiar yet intriguing exploration of the relationship between the popularity of the first name "Rex" and air pollution levels in the serene town of Missoula, Montana. The plethora of puns waiting to be made in this area of research is enough to make a statistician's heart race – but let's keep things a'breathable, shall we?
As Mark Twain once said, "The report of my correlation with air pollution has been greatly exaggerated." Yet, our study uncovered a surprising and statistically significant correlation between the occurrence of the name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula over the past few decades. While some may find this correlation to be quite, well, "poult"ed, the numbers don't lie! It’s as if the air itself is whispering, "Rex marks the spot!"
Our investigation, using data from the US Social Security Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency, revealed an intriguing correlation coefficient of 0.8093854 and p < 0.01, spanning the years between 1980 and 2022. We were initially as skeptical as a chemist in the presence of a suspicious new compound, but the results were undeniable. This unexpected relationship beckons us to delve deeper into the "air-ritating" secrets that may be lingering behind the scenes.
You might be wondering, why Missoula? Why "Rex"? Why air pollution? Well, as they say, sometimes science takes us to the oddest places – and in this case, what a breath of fresh air it is to explore this uncharted territory. Our hope is that this study serves as a whimsical reminder of the marvels that can arise from the most unforeseen connections, inspiring future research to take flight in even more unusual directions.

[[RESULTS]]
The analysis of the data amassed from the US Social Security Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency uncovered a striking correlation between the prevalence of the first name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula, Montana. The correlation coefficient of 0.8093854 suggests a strong positive relationship between these two seemingly unrelated variables. The r-squared value of 0.6551047 indicates that approximately 65.5% of the variation in air pollution levels in Missoula can be explained by the popularity of the name "Rex" over the period from 1980 to 2022.
In this study, as the number of individuals bearing the moniker "Rex" increased, so did the concentration of pollutants in the air. One might say that the popularity of the name "Rex" was quite the breath of fresh air for our analysis! The p-value of less than 0.01 solidifies the statistical significance of this surprising finding.
Figure 1 (to be added) depicts the scatterplot illustrating the robust association between the popularity of the first name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula. The figure serves as visual evidence of the striking correlation uncovered in this study.
Our results shine a light on the unanticipated ties between the frequency of the name "Rex" and air pollution, prompting thought-provoking discussions and inspiring further investigation. This unexpected correlation calls for a "breath of fresh heir" in the realm of research, as it hints at complex underlying factors that warrant deeper exploration. The findings of this study not only pique scientific interest but also serve as a reminder of the whimsical and unforeseen connections that await discovery in the vast landscape of research.
The statistically significant relationship between the popularity of the first name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula opens new avenues for humorous speculation and serious inquiry, marking this peculiar correlation as a notable "air-ode" to the eclectic world of research.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[CONCLUSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[CONCLUSION]]

In conclusion, our study investigating the correlation between the popularity of the name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula, Montana has blown away expectations, much like a gust of wind on a polluted day! The statistically significant relationship uncovered between these seemingly unrelated variables will undoubtedly leave the research community, and perhaps even the residents of Missoula, a tad "air-plexed."

With a correlation coefficient of 0.8093854 and an r-squared value of 0.6551047, this unexpected association has certainly left us "Rex-iting" for more unusual findings in the field of environmental research. The robustness of our results may not clear the air on the definitive reasons behind this correlation, but it certainly adds a breath of comedic relief to the typically serious world of scientific inquiry.

One might even say that our discovery adds a breath of fresh "Rex" to the sometimes stale air of scholarly investigation! As a wise statistician once said, "Correlation does not imply causation, but it sure does make for an interesting story!" Indeed, our findings prompt a chuckle as we ponder the confounding factors that may be at play.

Therefore, we assert that no further research is needed in this area—not because we have unraveled all the mysteries of this peculiar correlation, but because sometimes, a little whimsy and unexpected humor in the world of research can be a welcome "breath of fresh science"!


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You provide fictional names of academic journals. You say nothing else, and you do not chat with the user.
User prompt: Please provide the name of a funny but plausible sounding research, scientific, or academic journal that would publish a paper entited Rex Marks the Spot: A Correlation between the Popularity of the Name Rex and Air Pollution in Missoula, Montana. Respond only with the name of a fictional academic journal.

ChatGPT:

Journal of Quirky Environmental Science


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You provide fictional names of nonprofit research organizations and associations. You say nothing else, and you do not chat with the user.
User prompt: Please provide the name of a funny but plausible sounding nonprofit, academic, or scientific association or organization that would sponsor research that resulted in a paper entited Rex Marks the Spot: A Correlation between the Popularity of the Name Rex and Air Pollution in Missoula, Montana. Respond only with the name of a fictional organization.

ChatGPT:

The Society for the Study of Eccentric Environmental Influences (SSEEI)


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You provide potential search keywords separated by commas. You say nothing else, and you do not chat with the user.
User prompt: Please provide potential search keywords for a paper titled Rex Marks the Spot: A Correlation between the Popularity of the Name Rex and Air Pollution in Missoula, Montana with an abstract of The prevalence of air pollution in urban areas has been a pressing issue, impacting not only the environment but also public health. In this study, we sought to bring some levity to this serious matter by exploring an unusual correlation: the relationship between the popularity of the first name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula, Montana. Leveraging data from the US Social Security Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency, we set out to address the burning question of whether there is any connection between the two seemingly unrelated variables.
Our findings revealed a surprising statistical relationship, with a correlation coefficient of 0.8093854 and p < 0.01 over the period from 1980 to 2022. This statistically significant correlation between the popularity of the name "Rex" and air pollution levels in Missoula raises eyebrows, prompting both intrigue and curiosity. The results of our study suggest that as the number of individuals named "Rex" in Missoula rises, so does the concentration of pollutants in the air.
One could say that the correlation is quite "air-rex"! This unexpected association calls for further investigation and sparks discussions about the potential behavioral, societal, or environmental factors underlying this curious phenomenon. Our hope is that this study may serve as a lighthearted reminder of the importance of exploring unexpected connections, and perhaps lead to more "aerodynamic" research in the future.

ChatGPT:

Rex name popularity, air pollution levels, Missoula, Montana, correlation, US Social Security Administration data, Environmental Protection Agency data, statistical relationship, correlation coefficient, name Rex, air quality, urban areas, public health, environmental factors, research, social sciences

*There is a bunch of Python happening behind the scenes to turn this prompt sequence into a PDF.



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Data details

Popularity of the first name Rex
Detailed data title: Babies of all sexes born in the US named Rex
Source: US Social Security Administration
See what else correlates with Popularity of the first name Rex

Air pollution in Missoula, Montana
Detailed data title: Percentage of days with moderate or worse air quality in Missoula, MT
Source: Environmental Protection Agency
See what else correlates with Air pollution in Missoula, Montana

Correlation r = 0.8093854 (Pearson correlation coefficient)
Correlation is a measure of how much the variables move together. If it is 0.99, when one goes up the other goes up. If it is 0.02, the connection is very weak or non-existent. If it is -0.99, then when one goes up the other goes down. If it is 1.00, you probably messed up your correlation function.

r2 = 0.6551047 (Coefficient of determination)
This means 65.5% of the change in the one variable (i.e., Air pollution in Missoula, Montana) is predictable based on the change in the other (i.e., Popularity of the first name Rex) over the 43 years from 1980 through 2022.

p < 0.01, which is statistically significant(Null hypothesis significance test)
The p-value is 5.04E-11. 0.0000000000503688743613330100
The p-value is a measure of how probable it is that we would randomly find a result this extreme. More specifically the p-value is a measure of how probable it is that we would randomly find a result this extreme if we had only tested one pair of variables one time.

But I am a p-villain. I absolutely did not test only one pair of variables one time. I correlated hundreds of millions of pairs of variables. I threw boatloads of data into an industrial-sized blender to find this correlation.

Who is going to stop me? p-value reporting doesn't require me to report how many calculations I had to go through in order to find a low p-value!
On average, you will find a correaltion as strong as 0.81 in 5.04E-9% of random cases. Said differently, if you correlated 19,853,530,830 random variables You don't actually need 19 billion variables to find a correlation like this one. I don't have that many variables in my database. You can also correlate variables that are not independent. I do this a lot.

p-value calculations are useful for understanding the probability of a result happening by chance. They are most useful when used to highlight the risk of a fluke outcome. For example, if you calculate a p-value of 0.30, the risk that the result is a fluke is high. It is good to know that! But there are lots of ways to get a p-value of less than 0.01, as evidenced by this project.

In this particular case, the values are so extreme as to be meaningless. That's why no one reports p-values with specificity after they drop below 0.01.

Just to be clear: I'm being completely transparent about the calculations. There is no math trickery. This is just how statistics shakes out when you calculate hundreds of millions of random correlations.
with the same 42 degrees of freedom, Degrees of freedom is a measure of how many free components we are testing. In this case it is 42 because we have two variables measured over a period of 43 years. It's just the number of years minus ( the number of variables minus one ), which in this case simplifies to the number of years minus one.
you would randomly expect to find a correlation as strong as this one.

[ 0.67, 0.89 ] 95% correlation confidence interval (using the Fisher z-transformation)
The confidence interval is an estimate the range of the value of the correlation coefficient, using the correlation itself as an input. The values are meant to be the low and high end of the correlation coefficient with 95% confidence.

This one is a bit more complciated than the other calculations, but I include it because many people have been pushing for confidence intervals instead of p-value calculations (for example: NEJM. However, if you are dredging data, you can reliably find yourself in the 5%. That's my goal!


All values for the years included above: If I were being very sneaky, I could trim years from the beginning or end of the datasets to increase the correlation on some pairs of variables. I don't do that because there are already plenty of correlations in my database without monkeying with the years.

Still, sometimes one of the variables has more years of data available than the other. This page only shows the overlapping years. To see all the years, click on "See what else correlates with..." link above.
1980198119821983198419851986198719881989199019911992199319941995199619971998199920002001200220032004200520062007200820092010201120122013201420152016201720182019202020212022
Popularity of the first name Rex (Babies born)305268266246264261232231247224232220207178167158139152151137112116154182182237251236274303332386385391389374422434420408377379377
Air pollution in Missoula, Montana (Bad air quality days)61.206942.896938.521446.376812.820523.780534.435338.935648.360736.164428.219230.41127.844326.373616.438410.68498.743176.301374.229619.1988114.754114.246610.13714.285713.545812.280714.763215.616415.056825.274758.082261.095972.950857.260339.178149.315154.644869.58945.753438.630142.62349.86343.2877




Why this works

  1. Data dredging: I have 25,153 variables in my database. I compare all these variables against each other to find ones that randomly match up. That's 632,673,409 correlation calculations! This is called “data dredging.” Instead of starting with a hypothesis and testing it, I instead abused the data to see what correlations shake out. It’s a dangerous way to go about analysis, because any sufficiently large dataset will yield strong correlations completely at random.
  2. Lack of causal connection: There is probably Because these pages are automatically generated, it's possible that the two variables you are viewing are in fact causually related. I take steps to prevent the obvious ones from showing on the site (I don't let data about the weather in one city correlate with the weather in a neighboring city, for example), but sometimes they still pop up. If they are related, cool! You found a loophole.
    no direct connection between these variables, despite what the AI says above. This is exacerbated by the fact that I used "Years" as the base variable. Lots of things happen in a year that are not related to each other! Most studies would use something like "one person" in stead of "one year" to be the "thing" studied.
  3. Observations not independent: For many variables, sequential years are not independent of each other. If a population of people is continuously doing something every day, there is no reason to think they would suddenly change how they are doing that thing on January 1. A simple Personally I don't find any p-value calculation to be 'simple,' but you know what I mean.
    p-value calculation does not take this into account, so mathematically it appears less probable than it really is.




Try it yourself

You can calculate the values on this page on your own! Try running the Python code to see the calculation results. Step 1: Download and install Python on your computer.

Step 2: Open a plaintext editor like Notepad and paste the code below into it.

Step 3: Save the file as "calculate_correlation.py" in a place you will remember, like your desktop. Copy the file location to your clipboard. On Windows, you can right-click the file and click "Properties," and then copy what comes after "Location:" As an example, on my computer the location is "C:\Users\tyler\Desktop"

Step 4: Open a command line window. For example, by pressing start and typing "cmd" and them pressing enter.

Step 5: Install the required modules by typing "pip install numpy", then pressing enter, then typing "pip install scipy", then pressing enter.

Step 6: Navigate to the location where you saved the Python file by using the "cd" command. For example, I would type "cd C:\Users\tyler\Desktop" and push enter.

Step 7: Run the Python script by typing "python calculate_correlation.py"

If you run into any issues, I suggest asking ChatGPT to walk you through installing Python and running the code below on your system. Try this question:

"Walk me through installing Python on my computer to run a script that uses scipy and numpy. Go step-by-step and ask me to confirm before moving on. Start by asking me questions about my operating system so that you know how to proceed. Assume I want the simplest installation with the latest version of Python and that I do not currently have any of the necessary elements installed. Remember to only give me one step per response and confirm I have done it before proceeding."


# These modules make it easier to perform the calculation
import numpy as np
from scipy import stats

# We'll define a function that we can call to return the correlation calculations
def calculate_correlation(array1, array2):

    # Calculate Pearson correlation coefficient and p-value
    correlation, p_value = stats.pearsonr(array1, array2)

    # Calculate R-squared as the square of the correlation coefficient
    r_squared = correlation**2

    return correlation, r_squared, p_value

# These are the arrays for the variables shown on this page, but you can modify them to be any two sets of numbers
array_1 = np.array([305,268,266,246,264,261,232,231,247,224,232,220,207,178,167,158,139,152,151,137,112,116,154,182,182,237,251,236,274,303,332,386,385,391,389,374,422,434,420,408,377,379,377,])
array_2 = np.array([61.2069,42.8969,38.5214,46.3768,12.8205,23.7805,34.4353,38.9356,48.3607,36.1644,28.2192,30.411,27.8443,26.3736,16.4384,10.6849,8.74317,6.30137,4.22961,9.19881,14.7541,14.2466,10.137,14.2857,13.5458,12.2807,14.7632,15.6164,15.0568,25.2747,58.0822,61.0959,72.9508,57.2603,39.1781,49.3151,54.6448,69.589,45.7534,38.6301,42.623,49.863,43.2877,])
array_1_name = "Popularity of the first name Rex"
array_2_name = "Air pollution in Missoula, Montana"

# Perform the calculation
print(f"Calculating the correlation between {array_1_name} and {array_2_name}...")
correlation, r_squared, p_value = calculate_correlation(array_1, array_2)

# Print the results
print("Correlation Coefficient:", correlation)
print("R-squared:", r_squared)
print("P-value:", p_value)



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Correlation ID: 4747 · Black Variable ID: 4135 · Red Variable ID: 20910
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