about · email me · subscribe
Spurious correlation #2,220 · View random

A linear line chart with years as the X-axis and two variables on the Y-axis. The first variable is Air pollution in Fargo and the second variable is Google searches for 'suez canal'.  The chart goes from 2005 to 2023, and the two variables track closely in value over that time. Small Image
Download png
, svg

AI explanation

People in Fargo were trying to figure out if they could redirect the polluted air to clear the way in the Suez Canal.

Model: dalle-3
Prompt: Generate an image of a futuristic cityscape with a thick smog covering the skyline of Fargo. In the foreground, depict a diverse group of individuals gathered around a sleek, high-tech screen, all eagerly focused on typing "Suez Canal" into a glowing Google search bar. The scene should convey a sense of urgency and technological connectivity within a polluted urban environment. 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: Poor air quality in Fargo and Google searches for 'suez canal'. 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: A black-and-white newspaper illustration Magic realism Cubism Realistic High-tech
ChatGPT: High-tech

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 Poor air quality in Fargo and Google searches for 'suez canal' together. Keep the description simple.
ChatGPT: In Fargo, thick smog hovers over the skyline, obscuring the view of the city. Meanwhile, a group of people are gathered around a screen, eagerly typing "Suez Canal" into the Google search bar, trying to learn about the recent news and updates.

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: [ High-tech ] and depicting this scene: In Fargo, thick smog hovers over the skyline, obscuring the view of the city. Meanwhile, a group of people are gathered around a screen, eagerly typing "Suez Canal" into the Google search bar, trying to learn about the recent news and updates. Keep the visual depiction simple. Do not include any words or speech bubbles.
ChatGPT: Generate an image of a futuristic cityscape with a thick smog covering the skyline of Fargo. In the foreground, depict a diverse group of individuals gathered around a sleek, high-tech screen, all eagerly focused on typing "Suez Canal" into a glowing Google search bar. The scene should convey a sense of urgency and technological connectivity within a polluted urban environment.

*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 Air pollution in Fargo caused suez canal (Google searches for 'suez canal') to increase.

AI academic paper

(Because p < 0.01)
Clearing the Air: A Link Between Air Pollution in Fargo and the Curious Case of 'Suez Canal' Google Searches

The Journal of Eclectic Environmental Studies

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 Air pollution in Fargo and Google searches for 'suez canal'. 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 Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends to assess this nagging question. You found a correlation coefficient of 0.9106071 and p < 0.01 for 2005 to 2023.

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]]
Clearing the Air: A Link Between Air Pollution in Fargo and the Curious Case of 'Suez Canal' Google Searches

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we examined the intriguing relationship between air pollution levels in the charming city of Fargo and the frequency of Google searches related to the fabled 'Suez Canal'. Combining data from the Environmental Protection Agency's air quality reports and Google Trends, we embarked on a quest to uncover the mysterious link between these seemingly unrelated phenomena. Our findings revealed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9106071 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 2005 to 2023.

Amidst the fertile plains of Fargo, where the scent of freshly cut hay mingles with the crisp prairie breeze, we stumbled upon an unexpected revelation. It appears that as air pollution levels in this region fluctuated, so too did the public's interest in the illustrious Suez Canal. Our results leave us pondering the enigma that ties the air we breathe to the digital voyages embarked upon by curious internet users. It seems that when it comes to air pollution and online searches, the connection is not just air-y speculation!

As we delved deeper into this convoluted tale of air quality and maritime inquiries, we couldn't help but marvel at the whimsical nature of our findings. Just like the meandering twists and turns of the canal itself, the correlation between air pollution in Fargo and searches for the 'Suez Canal' demonstrated its own peculiar journey. Despite the unexpected nature of this link, our research highlights the importance of exploring unconventional connections and the need to navigate through the murky waters of interdisciplinary studies with both rigor and humor.


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 Air pollution in Fargo and Google searches for 'suez canal'. 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]]
Clearing the Air: A Link Between Air Pollution in Fargo and the Curious Case of 'Suez Canal' Google Searches

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we examined the intriguing relationship between air pollution levels in the charming city of Fargo and the frequency of Google searches related to the fabled 'Suez Canal'. Combining data from the Environmental Protection Agency's air quality reports and Google Trends, we embarked on a quest to uncover the mysterious link between these seemingly unrelated phenomena. Our findings revealed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9106071 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 2005 to 2023.

Amidst the fertile plains of Fargo, where the scent of freshly cut hay mingles with the crisp prairie breeze, we stumbled upon an unexpected revelation. It appears that as air pollution levels in this region fluctuated, so too did the public's interest in the illustrious Suez Canal. Our results leave us pondering the enigma that ties the air we breathe to the digital voyages embarked upon by curious internet users. It seems that when it comes to air pollution and online searches, the connection is not just air-y speculation!

As we delved deeper into this convoluted tale of air quality and maritime inquiries, we couldn't help but marvel at the whimsical nature of our findings. Just like the meandering twists and turns of the canal itself, the correlation between air pollution in Fargo and searches for the 'Suez Canal' demonstrated its own peculiar journey. Despite the unexpected nature of this link, our research highlights the importance of exploring unconventional connections and the need to navigate through the murky waters of interdisciplinary studies with both rigor and humor.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[INTRODUCTION]]



ChatGPT:
[[INTRODUCTION]]

As scientific investigators, we are accustomed to following the trail of evidence, hoping it leads us to a veritable goldmine of insight. In this pursuit, we often find ourselves knee-deep in data, searching for the elusive nuggets of correlation and causation. However, every now and then, our quest takes a surprising turn that leaves us exclaiming, "Well, isn't that a breath of fresh air!" Speaking of fresh air – well, not so fresh in this case – let's talk about the air quality in Fargo, North Dakota.

Air pollution is not a topic to be taken lightly, although its impacts can certainly make us feel a bit light-headed. From asthma-inducing particles to the ever-prevalent carbon monoxide, the presence of these airborne adversaries is no laughing matter. Well, unless you count the nervous laughter of someone desperately checking the air quality index for the umpteenth time. That being said, we couldn't resist the opportunity to delve into the fluctuations of air pollution levels in Fargo and their curious connection to the seemingly unrelated phenomenon of Google searches for the 'Suez Canal'.

Now, you might be wondering, "What's the correlation between air pollution in Fargo and a hot topic like the Suez Canal?" Hold on to your hats, dear readers, for we are about to embark on an enlightening journey of statistical analysis and unexpected connections. It seems that even in the world of research, there are no "air"tight compartments!


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 Air pollution in Fargo and Google searches for 'suez canal'. 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 a few real TV shows that sound like they might be relevant to the topic that you watched as research.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
Clearing the Air: A Link Between Air Pollution in Fargo and the Curious Case of 'Suez Canal' Google Searches

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we examined the intriguing relationship between air pollution levels in the charming city of Fargo and the frequency of Google searches related to the fabled 'Suez Canal'. Combining data from the Environmental Protection Agency's air quality reports and Google Trends, we embarked on a quest to uncover the mysterious link between these seemingly unrelated phenomena. Our findings revealed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9106071 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 2005 to 2023.

Amidst the fertile plains of Fargo, where the scent of freshly cut hay mingles with the crisp prairie breeze, we stumbled upon an unexpected revelation. It appears that as air pollution levels in this region fluctuated, so too did the public's interest in the illustrious Suez Canal. Our results leave us pondering the enigma that ties the air we breathe to the digital voyages embarked upon by curious internet users. It seems that when it comes to air pollution and online searches, the connection is not just air-y speculation!

As we delved deeper into this convoluted tale of air quality and maritime inquiries, we couldn't help but marvel at the whimsical nature of our findings. Just like the meandering twists and turns of the canal itself, the correlation between air pollution in Fargo and searches for the 'Suez Canal' demonstrated its own peculiar journey. Despite the unexpected nature of this link, our research highlights the importance of exploring unconventional connections and the need to navigate through the murky waters of interdisciplinary studies with both rigor and humor.

-------

And here is the introduction section that led to this literature review:
[[INTRODUCTION]]
As scientific investigators, we are accustomed to following the trail of evidence, hoping it leads us to a veritable goldmine of insight. In this pursuit, we often find ourselves knee-deep in data, searching for the elusive nuggets of correlation and causation. However, every now and then, our quest takes a surprising turn that leaves us exclaiming, "Well, isn't that a breath of fresh air!" Speaking of fresh air – well, not so fresh in this case – let's talk about the air quality in Fargo, North Dakota.
Air pollution is not a topic to be taken lightly, although its impacts can certainly make us feel a bit light-headed. From asthma-inducing particles to the ever-prevalent carbon monoxide, the presence of these airborne adversaries is no laughing matter. Well, unless you count the nervous laughter of someone desperately checking the air quality index for the umpteenth time. That being said, we couldn't resist the opportunity to delve into the fluctuations of air pollution levels in Fargo and their curious connection to the seemingly unrelated phenomenon of Google searches for the 'Suez Canal'.
Now, you might be wondering, "What's the correlation between air pollution in Fargo and a hot topic like the Suez Canal?" Hold on to your hats, dear readers, for we are about to embark on an enlightening journey of statistical analysis and unexpected connections. It seems that even in the world of research, there are no "air"tight compartments!

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]



ChatGPT:
[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

As we immerse ourselves in the peculiar intersection of air pollution in Fargo and the curious case of Google searches for the 'Suez Canal', we find ourselves irresistibly drawn to the academic works that have paved the way for our own exploration. In "Smith and Doe's Study on Environmental Anomalies", the authors highlight the intricate relationship between environmental factors and public curiosity, providing a solid foundation for our investigation. And speaking of foundations, did you hear about the architect who refused to leave any stone unturned? He had a firm belief in thorough research!

Continuing our expedition through the scholarly landscape, we stumbled upon "Jones' Analysis of Unlikely Connections", where the authors underscore the importance of delving into seemingly unrelated phenomena to unravel unforeseen correlations. This brings to mind a tale of two statisticians who met at a crossroads: one took the path of conventional research, while the other ventured into the uncharted territory of unconventional connections. Guess who found correlation?

Venturing beyond the realm of academic literature, we turned our attention to non-fiction books that provide valuable insights into both air quality and maritime mysteries. "The Air We Breathe: A Comprehensive Guide to Pollution and Health" offers a breath of fresh knowledge on the impact of air pollution, reminding us that every breath we take involves a medley of chemical compounds. Talk about a scientific symphony!

On the other side of the spectrum, fictional works such as "Mystery on the Canal: A Tale of Intrigue and Navigation" beckon us with their enigmatic narratives and subplots that mirror the unexpected twists and turns of our own investigation. Here's a riddle for you: What do you call a detective who solves maritime mysteries while suffering from hay fever? A nose for clues!

Embracing the spirit of interdisciplinary exploration, we couldn't overlook the influence of popular culture in shaping our understanding of the Suez Canal and related phenomena. From documentaries like "Mysteries of the Suez Canal Unveiled" to TV shows such as "Waterways and Wonders", our research journey occasionally took us on unexpected detours into the realm of maritime marvels and seafaring sagas. It's safe to say that we've come away with a newfound appreciation for the intersection of air pollution and digital diversions!

As we navigate the uncharted waters of this unusual connection, both the academic and fictional accounts have provided us with valuable perspectives and occasional comedic relief, reminding us that even in the world of rigorous research, there's always room for a good pun or two. After all, when it comes to unraveling the mysteries of the Suez Canal and air pollution in Fargo, a little levity can be a breath of fresh air amidst the data-driven discoveries!


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 Air pollution in Fargo and Google searches for 'suez canal'. 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 Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends . You used data from 2005 to 2023

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]]
Clearing the Air: A Link Between Air Pollution in Fargo and the Curious Case of 'Suez Canal' Google Searches

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we examined the intriguing relationship between air pollution levels in the charming city of Fargo and the frequency of Google searches related to the fabled 'Suez Canal'. Combining data from the Environmental Protection Agency's air quality reports and Google Trends, we embarked on a quest to uncover the mysterious link between these seemingly unrelated phenomena. Our findings revealed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9106071 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 2005 to 2023.

Amidst the fertile plains of Fargo, where the scent of freshly cut hay mingles with the crisp prairie breeze, we stumbled upon an unexpected revelation. It appears that as air pollution levels in this region fluctuated, so too did the public's interest in the illustrious Suez Canal. Our results leave us pondering the enigma that ties the air we breathe to the digital voyages embarked upon by curious internet users. It seems that when it comes to air pollution and online searches, the connection is not just air-y speculation!

As we delved deeper into this convoluted tale of air quality and maritime inquiries, we couldn't help but marvel at the whimsical nature of our findings. Just like the meandering twists and turns of the canal itself, the correlation between air pollution in Fargo and searches for the 'Suez Canal' demonstrated its own peculiar journey. Despite the unexpected nature of this link, our research highlights the importance of exploring unconventional connections and the need to navigate through the murky waters of interdisciplinary studies with both rigor and humor.

[[INTRODUCTION]]
As scientific investigators, we are accustomed to following the trail of evidence, hoping it leads us to a veritable goldmine of insight. In this pursuit, we often find ourselves knee-deep in data, searching for the elusive nuggets of correlation and causation. However, every now and then, our quest takes a surprising turn that leaves us exclaiming, "Well, isn't that a breath of fresh air!" Speaking of fresh air – well, not so fresh in this case – let's talk about the air quality in Fargo, North Dakota.
Air pollution is not a topic to be taken lightly, although its impacts can certainly make us feel a bit light-headed. From asthma-inducing particles to the ever-prevalent carbon monoxide, the presence of these airborne adversaries is no laughing matter. Well, unless you count the nervous laughter of someone desperately checking the air quality index for the umpteenth time. That being said, we couldn't resist the opportunity to delve into the fluctuations of air pollution levels in Fargo and their curious connection to the seemingly unrelated phenomenon of Google searches for the 'Suez Canal'.
Now, you might be wondering, "What's the correlation between air pollution in Fargo and a hot topic like the Suez Canal?" Hold on to your hats, dear readers, for we are about to embark on an enlightening journey of statistical analysis and unexpected connections. It seems that even in the world of research, there are no "air"tight compartments!

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[METHODOLOGY]]



ChatGPT:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

To unravel the enigmatic relationship between air pollution in Fargo and the captivating allure of the Suez Canal in the digital realm, we employed a medley of data collection and analytical techniques. Our pursuit of correlation and causation resembled a puzzling maze, but with the relentless spirit of scientific inquiry, we ventured forth to shed light on this unexplored intersection of environmental quality and online curiosity.

First and foremost, we gathered air quality data from the charming city of Fargo, North Dakota, relying on the Environmental Protection Agency's comprehensive reports. Carefully sifting through the data, we sought to capture the ebb and flow of various air pollutants, including the ever-elusive particulate matter and bewildering ozone levels. Our approach incorporated rigorous statistical methods, but we also made sure to wear our statistical snorkels – just in case we found ourselves in deep waters of uncertainty!

Simultaneously, we embarked on a digital odyssey into the realm of Google searches, with the elusive 'Suez Canal' as our guiding beacon. Leveraging the robust capabilities of Google Trends, we navigated through the tempestuous waters of online queries to track the fluctuating tides of public interest in this iconic waterway. Our analytical journey could be likened to a digital expedition, braving the unpredictable currents of search behavior to uncover any semblance of correlation with the atmospheric nuances of Fargo.

Now, let's talk about the analytical methods that anchored our investigation. Employing sophisticated statistical techniques, including time-series analysis and cross-correlation, we sought to discern any synchronous undulations between air pollution levels in Fargo and the temporal patterns of 'Suez Canal' searches. As we delved into the complexities of statistical modeling, we couldn't help but admire the parallels with navigating a complex canal – both endeavors require a keen eye for patterns and a knack for avoiding treacherous undercurrents!

Furthermore, our analysis traversed the treacherous terrain of spatiotemporal variability, accounting for seasonal fluctuations in air quality and the potential lag effects of online search behavior. Teetering on the precipice of statistical significance, we vigilantly scrutinized the p-values and confidence intervals, striving to distinguish genuine correlations from mere statistical flotsam and jetsam.

Finally, to ensure the robustness of our findings, we subjected our data to rigorous sensitivity analyses and sensitivity tests, scrutinizing the robustness of our correlation coefficient in the face of potential confounding variables. Just as a ship must weather the turbulence of the open seas, our statistical model braved the storm of potential biases, aiming to uphold the integrity of our investigative voyage.


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 Air pollution in Fargo and Google searches for 'suez canal'. 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 Environmental Protection Agency and Google Trends .

For the time period 2005 to 2023, you found a correlation 0.9106071, r-squared of 0.8292052, 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]]
Clearing the Air: A Link Between Air Pollution in Fargo and the Curious Case of 'Suez Canal' Google Searches

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we examined the intriguing relationship between air pollution levels in the charming city of Fargo and the frequency of Google searches related to the fabled 'Suez Canal'. Combining data from the Environmental Protection Agency's air quality reports and Google Trends, we embarked on a quest to uncover the mysterious link between these seemingly unrelated phenomena. Our findings revealed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9106071 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 2005 to 2023.

Amidst the fertile plains of Fargo, where the scent of freshly cut hay mingles with the crisp prairie breeze, we stumbled upon an unexpected revelation. It appears that as air pollution levels in this region fluctuated, so too did the public's interest in the illustrious Suez Canal. Our results leave us pondering the enigma that ties the air we breathe to the digital voyages embarked upon by curious internet users. It seems that when it comes to air pollution and online searches, the connection is not just air-y speculation!

As we delved deeper into this convoluted tale of air quality and maritime inquiries, we couldn't help but marvel at the whimsical nature of our findings. Just like the meandering twists and turns of the canal itself, the correlation between air pollution in Fargo and searches for the 'Suez Canal' demonstrated its own peculiar journey. Despite the unexpected nature of this link, our research highlights the importance of exploring unconventional connections and the need to navigate through the murky waters of interdisciplinary studies with both rigor and humor.

-------

And here is the methodology section that led to this result:
[[METHODOLOGY]]
As scientific investigators, we are accustomed to following the trail of evidence, hoping it leads us to a veritable goldmine of insight. In this pursuit, we often find ourselves knee-deep in data, searching for the elusive nuggets of correlation and causation. However, every now and then, our quest takes a surprising turn that leaves us exclaiming, "Well, isn't that a breath of fresh air!" Speaking of fresh air – well, not so fresh in this case – let's talk about the air quality in Fargo, North Dakota.
Air pollution is not a topic to be taken lightly, although its impacts can certainly make us feel a bit light-headed. From asthma-inducing particles to the ever-prevalent carbon monoxide, the presence of these airborne adversaries is no laughing matter. Well, unless you count the nervous laughter of someone desperately checking the air quality index for the umpteenth time. That being said, we couldn't resist the opportunity to delve into the fluctuations of air pollution levels in Fargo and their curious connection to the seemingly unrelated phenomenon of Google searches for the 'Suez Canal'.
Now, you might be wondering, "What's the correlation between air pollution in Fargo and a hot topic like the Suez Canal?" Hold on to your hats, dear readers, for we are about to embark on an enlightening journey of statistical analysis and unexpected connections. It seems that even in the world of research, there are no "air"tight compartments!

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[RESULTS]]



ChatGPT:

[[RESULTS]]

As we analyzed the relationship between air pollution in Fargo and the frequency of Google searches for 'Suez Canal', we found a remarkably strong correlation coefficient of 0.9106071. This finding indicates a robust positive relationship between these seemingly disparate variables, suggesting that air pollution fluctuations in Fargo may indeed influence the public's interest in the legendary Suez Canal.

It seems that the air quality in Fargo has more reach than just the visible haze – it may also influence the virtual quests of internet users scouring the digital landscape for topics as intriguing as the 'Suez Canal'. One might say that air pollution's impact isn't just restricted to the atmosphere, but extends to the ethereal realm of online searches – a phenomenon as mysterious as a foggy morning on the banks of the Red River.

Now, for the statisticians among us, the r-squared value of 0.8292052 adds weight to our findings, indicating that approximately 82.92% of the variability in Google searches for 'Suez Canal' can be explained by the fluctuations in air pollution levels in Fargo from 2005 to 2023. This level of explanatory power certainly speaks volumes about the influence of air quality on digital curiosity.

In the realm of statistical significance, our results boasted a p-value of less than 0.01, solidifying the strength of the association and lending credibility to our findings. This p-value is so small, it makes the chances of the air pollution-Suez Canal connection being a fluke about as likely as finding a needle in a historically significant maritime waterway.

As proud purveyors of puns, we can't resist likening our findings to a breath of fresh air – or maybe not so fresh in Fargo's case, but certainly a breath of insight. It seems that our research has uncovered a connection that is both air-tight and air-ighty intriguing. With these results in hand, we invite the scientific community to join us in delving deeper into the atmospheric mysteries that intertwine with the virtual marvels of the internet. For now, we leave you with the data-supported knowledge that the captivating allure of the Suez Canal may, in fact, be influenced by the ever-changing winds of air pollution in Fargo. A revelation worthy of both a scientific journal and a dad joke!

The reader will find the visual representation of this correlation in Fig. 1, where the scatterplot demonstrates the tight relationship between air pollution levels in Fargo and the frequency of Google searches for 'Suez Canal'. This visual reaffirms our quantitative analyses and serves as a vivid testament to the enchanting saga of interdisciplinary connections that our research has unveiled.


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 Air pollution in Fargo and Google searches for 'suez canal'. 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]]
Clearing the Air: A Link Between Air Pollution in Fargo and the Curious Case of 'Suez Canal' Google Searches

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we examined the intriguing relationship between air pollution levels in the charming city of Fargo and the frequency of Google searches related to the fabled 'Suez Canal'. Combining data from the Environmental Protection Agency's air quality reports and Google Trends, we embarked on a quest to uncover the mysterious link between these seemingly unrelated phenomena. Our findings revealed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9106071 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 2005 to 2023.

Amidst the fertile plains of Fargo, where the scent of freshly cut hay mingles with the crisp prairie breeze, we stumbled upon an unexpected revelation. It appears that as air pollution levels in this region fluctuated, so too did the public's interest in the illustrious Suez Canal. Our results leave us pondering the enigma that ties the air we breathe to the digital voyages embarked upon by curious internet users. It seems that when it comes to air pollution and online searches, the connection is not just air-y speculation!

As we delved deeper into this convoluted tale of air quality and maritime inquiries, we couldn't help but marvel at the whimsical nature of our findings. Just like the meandering twists and turns of the canal itself, the correlation between air pollution in Fargo and searches for the 'Suez Canal' demonstrated its own peculiar journey. Despite the unexpected nature of this link, our research highlights the importance of exploring unconventional connections and the need to navigate through the murky waters of interdisciplinary studies with both rigor and humor.

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]
As we immerse ourselves in the peculiar intersection of air pollution in Fargo and the curious case of Google searches for the 'Suez Canal', we find ourselves irresistibly drawn to the academic works that have paved the way for our own exploration. In "Smith and Doe's Study on Environmental Anomalies", the authors highlight the intricate relationship between environmental factors and public curiosity, providing a solid foundation for our investigation. And speaking of foundations, did you hear about the architect who refused to leave any stone unturned? He had a firm belief in thorough research!
Continuing our expedition through the scholarly landscape, we stumbled upon "Jones' Analysis of Unlikely Connections", where the authors underscore the importance of delving into seemingly unrelated phenomena to unravel unforeseen correlations. This brings to mind a tale of two statisticians who met at a crossroads: one took the path of conventional research, while the other ventured into the uncharted territory of unconventional connections. Guess who found correlation?
Venturing beyond the realm of academic literature, we turned our attention to non-fiction books that provide valuable insights into both air quality and maritime mysteries. "The Air We Breathe: A Comprehensive Guide to Pollution and Health" offers a breath of fresh knowledge on the impact of air pollution, reminding us that every breath we take involves a medley of chemical compounds. Talk about a scientific symphony!
On the other side of the spectrum, fictional works such as "Mystery on the Canal: A Tale of Intrigue and Navigation" beckon us with their enigmatic narratives and subplots that mirror the unexpected twists and turns of our own investigation. Here's a riddle for you: What do you call a detective who solves maritime mysteries while suffering from hay fever? A nose for clues!
Embracing the spirit of interdisciplinary exploration, we couldn't overlook the influence of popular culture in shaping our understanding of the Suez Canal and related phenomena. From documentaries like "Mysteries of the Suez Canal Unveiled" to TV shows such as "Waterways and Wonders", our research journey occasionally took us on unexpected detours into the realm of maritime marvels and seafaring sagas. It's safe to say that we've come away with a newfound appreciation for the intersection of air pollution and digital diversions!
As we navigate the uncharted waters of this unusual connection, both the academic and fictional accounts have provided us with valuable perspectives and occasional comedic relief, reminding us that even in the world of rigorous research, there's always room for a good pun or two. After all, when it comes to unraveling the mysteries of the Suez Canal and air pollution in Fargo, a little levity can be a breath of fresh air amidst the data-driven discoveries!

[[RESULTS]]
As we analyzed the relationship between air pollution in Fargo and the frequency of Google searches for 'Suez Canal', we found a remarkably strong correlation coefficient of 0.9106071. This finding indicates a robust positive relationship between these seemingly disparate variables, suggesting that air pollution fluctuations in Fargo may indeed influence the public's interest in the legendary Suez Canal.
It seems that the air quality in Fargo has more reach than just the visible haze – it may also influence the virtual quests of internet users scouring the digital landscape for topics as intriguing as the 'Suez Canal'. One might say that air pollution's impact isn't just restricted to the atmosphere, but extends to the ethereal realm of online searches – a phenomenon as mysterious as a foggy morning on the banks of the Red River.
Now, for the statisticians among us, the r-squared value of 0.8292052 adds weight to our findings, indicating that approximately 82.92% of the variability in Google searches for 'Suez Canal' can be explained by the fluctuations in air pollution levels in Fargo from 2005 to 2023. This level of explanatory power certainly speaks volumes about the influence of air quality on digital curiosity.
In the realm of statistical significance, our results boasted a p-value of less than 0.01, solidifying the strength of the association and lending credibility to our findings. This p-value is so small, it makes the chances of the air pollution-Suez Canal connection being a fluke about as likely as finding a needle in a historically significant maritime waterway.
As proud purveyors of puns, we can't resist likening our findings to a breath of fresh air – or maybe not so fresh in Fargo's case, but certainly a breath of insight. It seems that our research has uncovered a connection that is both air-tight and air-ighty intriguing. With these results in hand, we invite the scientific community to join us in delving deeper into the atmospheric mysteries that intertwine with the virtual marvels of the internet. For now, we leave you with the data-supported knowledge that the captivating allure of the Suez Canal may, in fact, be influenced by the ever-changing winds of air pollution in Fargo. A revelation worthy of both a scientific journal and a dad joke!
The reader will find the visual representation of this correlation in Fig. 1, where the scatterplot demonstrates the tight relationship between air pollution levels in Fargo and the frequency of Google searches for 'Suez Canal'. This visual reaffirms our quantitative analyses and serves as a vivid testament to the enchanting saga of interdisciplinary connections that our research has unveiled.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[DISCUSSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[DISCUSSION]]

Our findings have unraveled the captivating connection between air pollution in Fargo and the virtual voyages embarked upon by Google users in search of information about the illustrious 'Suez Canal'. These results not only confirm our hypothesis but also shed light on the intriguing intersection of environmental factors and digital curiosity. It seems that the air in Fargo may influence more than just the locals' respiratory systems – it can also direct the online explorations of individuals seeking maritime knowledge. In other words, air pollution in Fargo might just be blowing curious internet users in the direction of the Suez Canal, creating an air-tight correlation that is as unexpected as finding an ozone hole in the middle of a cornfield.

Our study builds upon the foundations laid by previous research, such as Smith and Doe's work on environmental anomalies, which highlighted the intricate relationship between environmental factors and public curiosity. This correlation is as strong as the bond between two nitrogen atoms – it holds the potential to unlock new realms of understanding about the influence of air quality on internet search trends. Our results not only support the prior literature but also launch us into uncharted territories of interdisciplinary exploration. It's like discovering a new element on the periodic table – unexpected, yet exhilarating.

With a correlation coefficient of 0.9106071 and an r-squared value of 0.8292052, our findings stand as firm as a carbon molecule in a diamond lattice, showcasing the robustness of the relationship between air pollution in Fargo and Google searches for the 'Suez Canal'. The statistical significance of our results further solidifies the credibility of this connection, making the likelihood of it being a fluke as remote as finding a polar bear in the Sahara.

Our study contributes to the burgeoning field of interdisciplinary research, reminding us that in the world of academia, conventional wisdom can sometimes lead to unconventional discoveries. Just like a well-constructed pun, our research has not only provided statistical evidence for a surprising connection but has also added a dash of unexpected humor to the usually serious discourse of scientific inquiry. After all, in the world of academia, who says research can't be a breath of fresh air – even if that air is sometimes a little polluted?

Alas, there is so much more to uncover in this intricate web of air pollution and digital wanderings, inviting further exploration into the mysterious forces that shape our online quests. As we raise our metaphorical sail to catch the winds of curiosity, our findings beckon future researchers to join us on this delightful journey through the digital seas, charting new territories of knowledge and perhaps stumbling upon more unexpected connections along the way. Just like a continuous function, the quest for knowledge goes on, with each discovery adding another piece to the ever-expanding puzzle of our world.


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 Air pollution in Fargo and Google searches for 'suez canal'. 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]]
Clearing the Air: A Link Between Air Pollution in Fargo and the Curious Case of 'Suez Canal' Google Searches

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we examined the intriguing relationship between air pollution levels in the charming city of Fargo and the frequency of Google searches related to the fabled 'Suez Canal'. Combining data from the Environmental Protection Agency's air quality reports and Google Trends, we embarked on a quest to uncover the mysterious link between these seemingly unrelated phenomena. Our findings revealed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9106071 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 2005 to 2023.

Amidst the fertile plains of Fargo, where the scent of freshly cut hay mingles with the crisp prairie breeze, we stumbled upon an unexpected revelation. It appears that as air pollution levels in this region fluctuated, so too did the public's interest in the illustrious Suez Canal. Our results leave us pondering the enigma that ties the air we breathe to the digital voyages embarked upon by curious internet users. It seems that when it comes to air pollution and online searches, the connection is not just air-y speculation!

As we delved deeper into this convoluted tale of air quality and maritime inquiries, we couldn't help but marvel at the whimsical nature of our findings. Just like the meandering twists and turns of the canal itself, the correlation between air pollution in Fargo and searches for the 'Suez Canal' demonstrated its own peculiar journey. Despite the unexpected nature of this link, our research highlights the importance of exploring unconventional connections and the need to navigate through the murky waters of interdisciplinary studies with both rigor and humor.

[[INTRDUCTION]]
As scientific investigators, we are accustomed to following the trail of evidence, hoping it leads us to a veritable goldmine of insight. In this pursuit, we often find ourselves knee-deep in data, searching for the elusive nuggets of correlation and causation. However, every now and then, our quest takes a surprising turn that leaves us exclaiming, "Well, isn't that a breath of fresh air!" Speaking of fresh air – well, not so fresh in this case – let's talk about the air quality in Fargo, North Dakota.
Air pollution is not a topic to be taken lightly, although its impacts can certainly make us feel a bit light-headed. From asthma-inducing particles to the ever-prevalent carbon monoxide, the presence of these airborne adversaries is no laughing matter. Well, unless you count the nervous laughter of someone desperately checking the air quality index for the umpteenth time. That being said, we couldn't resist the opportunity to delve into the fluctuations of air pollution levels in Fargo and their curious connection to the seemingly unrelated phenomenon of Google searches for the 'Suez Canal'.
Now, you might be wondering, "What's the correlation between air pollution in Fargo and a hot topic like the Suez Canal?" Hold on to your hats, dear readers, for we are about to embark on an enlightening journey of statistical analysis and unexpected connections. It seems that even in the world of research, there are no "air"tight compartments!

[[RESULTS]]
As we analyzed the relationship between air pollution in Fargo and the frequency of Google searches for 'Suez Canal', we found a remarkably strong correlation coefficient of 0.9106071. This finding indicates a robust positive relationship between these seemingly disparate variables, suggesting that air pollution fluctuations in Fargo may indeed influence the public's interest in the legendary Suez Canal.
It seems that the air quality in Fargo has more reach than just the visible haze – it may also influence the virtual quests of internet users scouring the digital landscape for topics as intriguing as the 'Suez Canal'. One might say that air pollution's impact isn't just restricted to the atmosphere, but extends to the ethereal realm of online searches – a phenomenon as mysterious as a foggy morning on the banks of the Red River.
Now, for the statisticians among us, the r-squared value of 0.8292052 adds weight to our findings, indicating that approximately 82.92% of the variability in Google searches for 'Suez Canal' can be explained by the fluctuations in air pollution levels in Fargo from 2005 to 2023. This level of explanatory power certainly speaks volumes about the influence of air quality on digital curiosity.
In the realm of statistical significance, our results boasted a p-value of less than 0.01, solidifying the strength of the association and lending credibility to our findings. This p-value is so small, it makes the chances of the air pollution-Suez Canal connection being a fluke about as likely as finding a needle in a historically significant maritime waterway.
As proud purveyors of puns, we can't resist likening our findings to a breath of fresh air – or maybe not so fresh in Fargo's case, but certainly a breath of insight. It seems that our research has uncovered a connection that is both air-tight and air-ighty intriguing. With these results in hand, we invite the scientific community to join us in delving deeper into the atmospheric mysteries that intertwine with the virtual marvels of the internet. For now, we leave you with the data-supported knowledge that the captivating allure of the Suez Canal may, in fact, be influenced by the ever-changing winds of air pollution in Fargo. A revelation worthy of both a scientific journal and a dad joke!
The reader will find the visual representation of this correlation in Fig. 1, where the scatterplot demonstrates the tight relationship between air pollution levels in Fargo and the frequency of Google searches for 'Suez Canal'. This visual reaffirms our quantitative analyses and serves as a vivid testament to the enchanting saga of interdisciplinary connections that our research has unveiled.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[CONCLUSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[CONCLUSION]]

In conclusion, our research has uncovered a surprising and robust correlation between air pollution levels in Fargo and the frequency of Google searches for the 'Suez Canal'. It seems that the winds of curiosity are indeed affected by the atmospheric conditions in Fargo, prompting individuals to set sail in the digital realm in search of maritime marvels. The strength of this connection is so undeniable, one might say it's as clear as the smog on a hazy day in Fargo.

Our findings highlight the need to not only analyze conventional relationships between variables but also to explore the uncharted territories where unexpected correlations may lay anchor. As researchers, it's essential to keep our hypotheses as open as the air around us - or maybe not as open as the ozone layer, lest we invite unprecedented levels of UV rays and unforeseen correlations.

With a correlation coefficient of 0.9106071 and a statistically significant p-value, our results point to a compelling association that goes beyond mere coincidence. In the immortal words of a statistical dad: "You can't spell 'p-value' without 'value', and our findings certainly hold plenty of that!"

Therefore, we confidently assert that further research in this area is unnecessary. We've shed light on a connection as unassuming as a gentle breeze in the vast prairie land of Fargo. It's time to raise our sails and navigate towards new research horizons, leaving the air pollution-Suez Canal relationship as bright and enigmatic as a buoyant buoy on the vast sea of statistical inquiry. After all, there are only so many air puns one can make before they start to become a little too airitating.


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 Clearing the Air: A Link Between Air Pollution in Fargo and the Curious Case of 'Suez Canal' Google Searches. Respond only with the name of a fictional academic journal.

ChatGPT:

The Journal of Eclectic Environmental Studies


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 Clearing the Air: A Link Between Air Pollution in Fargo and the Curious Case of 'Suez Canal' Google Searches. Respond only with the name of a fictional organization.

ChatGPT:

The Institute for Atmospheric Anecdotes


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 Clearing the Air: A Link Between Air Pollution in Fargo and the Curious Case of 'Suez Canal' Google Searches with an abstract of In this study, we examined the intriguing relationship between air pollution levels in the charming city of Fargo and the frequency of Google searches related to the fabled 'Suez Canal'. Combining data from the Environmental Protection Agency's air quality reports and Google Trends, we embarked on a quest to uncover the mysterious link between these seemingly unrelated phenomena. Our findings revealed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9106071 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 2005 to 2023.
Amidst the fertile plains of Fargo, where the scent of freshly cut hay mingles with the crisp prairie breeze, we stumbled upon an unexpected revelation. It appears that as air pollution levels in this region fluctuated, so too did the public's interest in the illustrious Suez Canal. Our results leave us pondering the enigma that ties the air we breathe to the digital voyages embarked upon by curious internet users. It seems that when it comes to air pollution and online searches, the connection is not just air-y speculation!
As we delved deeper into this convoluted tale of air quality and maritime inquiries, we couldn't help but marvel at the whimsical nature of our findings. Just like the meandering twists and turns of the canal itself, the correlation between air pollution in Fargo and searches for the 'Suez Canal' demonstrated its own peculiar journey. Despite the unexpected nature of this link, our research highlights the importance of exploring unconventional connections and the need to navigate through the murky waters of interdisciplinary studies with both rigor and humor.

ChatGPT:

air pollution levels, Fargo, Google searches, Suez Canal, correlation coefficient, Environmental Protection Agency air quality reports, Google Trends, p-value, 2005-2023, public interest, online searches, interdisciplinary studies

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



Random correlation

Discover a new correlation

View all correlations

View all research papers

Report an error


Data details

Air pollution in Fargo
Detailed data title: Percentage of days 'unhealthy' or worse air quality in Fargo, ND-MN
Source: Environmental Protection Agency
See what else correlates with Air pollution in Fargo

Google searches for 'suez canal'
Detailed data title: Relative volume of Google searches for 'suez canal' (Worldwide, without quotes)
Source: Google Trends
Additional Info: Relative search volume (not absolute numbers)

See what else correlates with Google searches for 'suez canal'

Correlation r = 0.9106071 (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 = 0.8292052 (Coefficient of determination)
This means 82.9% of the change in the one variable (i.e., Google searches for 'suez canal') is predictable based on the change in the other (i.e., Air pollution in Fargo) over the 19 years from 2005 through 2023.

p < 0.01, which is statistically significant(Null hypothesis significance test)
The p-value is 6.201E-8. 0.0000000620063770303801200000
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 0.91 in 6.201E-6% of random cases. Said differently, if you correlated 16,127,373 random variables You don't actually need 16 million 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 18 degrees of freedom, Degrees of freedom is a measure of how many free components we are testing. In this case it is 18 because we have two variables measured over a period of 19 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.

[ 0.78, 0.97 ] 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.
2005200620072008200920102011201220132014201520162017201820192020202120222023
Air pollution in Fargo (Bad air quality days)0.0027624300.005494510.0027322400000000000.0027548200.024793400.0097561
Google searches for 'suez canal' (Rel. search volume)2.333332.251.833331.751.666671.52.333331.51.751.752.166671.251.51.583331.666671.7511.833322.1




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.
  4. Outlandish outliers: There are "outliers" in this data. In concept, "outlier" just means "way different than the rest of your dataset." When calculating a correlation like this, they are particularly impactful because a single outlier can substantially increase your correlation.

    For the purposes of this project, I counted a point as an outlier if it the residual was two standard deviations from the mean.

    (This bullet point only shows up in the details page on charts that do, in fact, have outliers.)
    They stand out on the scatterplot above: notice the dots that are far away from any other dots. I intentionally mishandeled outliers, which makes the correlation look extra strong.




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([0.00276243,0,0.00549451,0.00273224,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,0.00275482,0,0.0247934,0,0.0097561,])
array_2 = np.array([2.33333,2.25,1.83333,1.75,1.66667,1.5,2.33333,1.5,1.75,1.75,2.16667,1.25,1.5,1.58333,1.66667,1.75,11.8333,2,2.1,])
array_1_name = "Air pollution in Fargo"
array_2_name = "Google searches for 'suez canal'"

# 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)



Reuseable content

You may re-use the images on this page for any purpose, even commercial purposes, without asking for permission. The only requirement is that you attribute Tyler Vigen. Attribution can take many different forms. If you leave the "tylervigen.com" link in the image, that satisfies it just fine. If you remove it and move it to a footnote, that's fine too. You can also just write "Charts courtesy of Tyler Vigen" at the bottom of an article.

You do not need to attribute "the spurious correlations website," and you don't even need to link here if you don't want to. I don't gain anything from pageviews. There are no ads on this site, there is nothing for sale, and I am not for hire.

For the record, I am just one person. Tyler Vigen, he/him/his. I do have degrees, but they should not go after my name unless you want to annoy my wife. If that is your goal, then go ahead and cite me as "Tyler Vigen, A.A. A.A.S. B.A. J.D." Otherwise it is just "Tyler Vigen."

When spoken, my last name is pronounced "vegan," like I don't eat meat.

Full license details.
For more on re-use permissions, or to get a signed release form, see tylervigen.com/permission.

Download images for these variables:


View another random correlation

How fun was this correlation?

Cheers to you for rating this correlation!


Correlation ID: 2220 · Black Variable ID: 21814 · Red Variable ID: 1386
about · subscribe · emailme@tylervigen.com · twitter

CC BY 4.0