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Spurious correlation #4,062 · 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 Fond du Lac, Wisconsin and the second variable is Kerosene used in Japan.  The chart goes from 1984 to 2022, and the two variables track closely in value over that time. Small Image

AI explanation

The firefighting cows in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin have been so efficient at clearing the air that they inadvertently sparked a global movement. Their secret technique? Mooing in perfect harmony to create powerful wind currents that disperse pollution. As a result, the demand for kerosene in Japan has plummeted because the cows' moo-vement has literally blown it away. Thank you, dairy air!

Model: dalle-3
Prompt: Generate an image of a serene park in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, where families come together to fly colorful kites against a backdrop of clear, pollution-free skies. In contrast, depict a dimly-lit scene in Japan with lanterns casting a faint glow as the dwindling supply of kerosene affects their brightness in the evening light. Emphasize the vibrant kites dancing in the park and the soft, muted glow of the lanterns in the Japanese 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: Air pollution in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin and Kerosene used in Japan. 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: Voxel art Sci-fi fantacy Sci-fi fantacy Realistic a meme
ChatGPT: Realistic

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 Air pollution in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin and Kerosene used in Japan, in the following situation: Decrease in air pollution in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin caused a decrease in kerosene used in Japan because as air quality improved, people in Fond du Lac became so full of fresh air that they decided to take up kite flying as a hobby. This led to an increase in demand for kites, causing a shortage of kerosene in Japan for lanterns, leading to decreased usage.. Keep the description simple.
ChatGPT: In Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, the skies cleared as air pollution decreased. Families gathered in the park, flying vibrant kites that danced gracefully in the fresh breeze. Meanwhile, in Japan, lanterns dimmed in the evening light, as the dwindling supply of kerosene left them with just a faint glow.

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: [ Realistic ] and depicting this scene: In Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, the skies cleared as air pollution decreased. Families gathered in the park, flying vibrant kites that danced gracefully in the fresh breeze. Meanwhile, in Japan, lanterns dimmed in the evening light, as the dwindling supply of kerosene left them with just a faint glow. Keep the visual depiction simple. Do not include any words or speech bubbles.
ChatGPT: Generate an image of a serene park in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, where families come together to fly colorful kites against a backdrop of clear, pollution-free skies. In contrast, depict a dimly-lit scene in Japan with lanterns casting a faint glow as the dwindling supply of kerosene affects their brightness in the evening light. Emphasize the vibrant kites dancing in the park and the soft, muted glow of the lanterns in the Japanese 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 a decrease in Air pollution in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin caused Kerosene used in Japan to decrease.\Make it sound serious until the end.

AI academic paper

(Because p < 0.01)
Gasping for Air: An Unlikely Union Between Air Pollution in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and Kerosene Consumption in Japan

Journal of Environmental Interconnections

Jan 2024
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 Fond du Lac, Wisconsin and Kerosene used in Japan. Make lots of jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

Make the title a clever pun.

Your research team used data from Environmental Protection Agency and Energy Information Administration to assess this nagging question. You found a correlation coefficient of 0.6812030 and p < 0.01 for 1984 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]]
Gasping for Air: An Unlikely Union Between Air Pollution in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and Kerosene Consumption in Japan

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we delve deep into the surprising connection between air pollution levels in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and the consumption of kerosene in Japan. While initially, we were as skeptical as a statistician stuck in a room with only a broken calculator, our research uncovered a correlation coefficient of 0.6812030 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning from 1984 to 2022.

As we sifted through the data from the Environmental Protection Agency and the Energy Information Administration, we couldn't help but marvel at the unlikely bond that seemed to exist between the two seemingly unrelated entities. It was as if the air pollution in Fond du Lac was reaching out across the globe, attempting to form a chemical bond with the kerosene consumption in Japan.

So, as much as the connection seemed as improbable as a penguin doing ballet, our findings indicate a significant relationship between these two factors. Our findings highlight the need for further investigation into the intricacies of global pollution and the unexpected ways in which different regions can influence each other. After all, in the waltz of atmospheric chemistry, it appears that even the most unlikely partners can end up dancing a lively duet.


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 Fond du Lac, Wisconsin and Kerosene used in Japan. Make lots of jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
Gasping for Air: An Unlikely Union Between Air Pollution in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and Kerosene Consumption in Japan

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we delve deep into the surprising connection between air pollution levels in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and the consumption of kerosene in Japan. While initially, we were as skeptical as a statistician stuck in a room with only a broken calculator, our research uncovered a correlation coefficient of 0.6812030 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning from 1984 to 2022.

As we sifted through the data from the Environmental Protection Agency and the Energy Information Administration, we couldn't help but marvel at the unlikely bond that seemed to exist between the two seemingly unrelated entities. It was as if the air pollution in Fond du Lac was reaching out across the globe, attempting to form a chemical bond with the kerosene consumption in Japan.

So, as much as the connection seemed as improbable as a penguin doing ballet, our findings indicate a significant relationship between these two factors. Our findings highlight the need for further investigation into the intricacies of global pollution and the unexpected ways in which different regions can influence each other. After all, in the waltz of atmospheric chemistry, it appears that even the most unlikely partners can end up dancing a lively duet.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[INTRODUCTION]]



ChatGPT:
[[INTRODUCTION]]

Air pollution is a pervasive issue that plagues global communities, akin to a relentless game of "whack-a-mole" where one problem pops up as soon as another is squashed. The city of Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, has been no exception to this, grappling with its own share of air quality challenges despite being surrounded by picturesque lakes and scenic countryside. However, in a plot twist that would make even the most seasoned detective scratch their head in befuddlement, our investigation led us to an unexpected co-conspirator in the form of kerosene consumption in Japan.

The connection between these seemingly disparate entities raised eyebrows more than a celebrity sighting at a local supermarket. Through meticulous data analysis and rigorous statistical methods, we uncovered a relationship so compelling that it rivaled even the most dramatic reality TV plotlines. It was as if the air pollution in Fond du Lac and the kerosene in Japan were engaged in a clandestine liaison, with each one affecting the other in ways that left us pondering whether the laws of physics had taken a vacation.

As we embarked on this research endeavor, we were met with skepticism as sharp as a statistician's razor. After all, what could the sulfurous fumes of Fond du Lac possibly have in common with the kerosene lamps of Japan? Yet, the numbers don't lie, much like a polygraph machine in a police interrogation room. Our findings revealed a relationship so robust that it made us wonder if these two entities were pen pals exchanging air samples and fuel consumption data through international post.

The implications of our findings go beyond the immediate shock value of discovering this unlikely linkage. It prompts us to rethink our understanding of air pollution and its far-reaching effects, urging us to consider the ramifications of a world where geographical boundaries seem as permeable as a sieve. After all, the world is no stranger to unexpected alliances, from peanut butter and jelly to salt and caramel, and it appears that air pollution and kerosene may have joined this eclectic club.

In the following sections, we will delve into the intricate web of connections between air pollution in Fond du Lac and kerosene usage in Japan, unraveling the mystery behind their unlikely union and shedding light on the broader implications for global environmental research. As we navigate this labyrinth of atmospheric science and energy consumption, prepare to be as astonished as a chemist discovering a new element, for the dance of air pollution and kerosene consumption may just become the greatest show on earth.


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 Fond du Lac, Wisconsin and Kerosene used in Japan. Make lots of jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

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 couple popular internet memes that are related to one of the topics.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
Gasping for Air: An Unlikely Union Between Air Pollution in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and Kerosene Consumption in Japan

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we delve deep into the surprising connection between air pollution levels in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and the consumption of kerosene in Japan. While initially, we were as skeptical as a statistician stuck in a room with only a broken calculator, our research uncovered a correlation coefficient of 0.6812030 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning from 1984 to 2022.

As we sifted through the data from the Environmental Protection Agency and the Energy Information Administration, we couldn't help but marvel at the unlikely bond that seemed to exist between the two seemingly unrelated entities. It was as if the air pollution in Fond du Lac was reaching out across the globe, attempting to form a chemical bond with the kerosene consumption in Japan.

So, as much as the connection seemed as improbable as a penguin doing ballet, our findings indicate a significant relationship between these two factors. Our findings highlight the need for further investigation into the intricacies of global pollution and the unexpected ways in which different regions can influence each other. After all, in the waltz of atmospheric chemistry, it appears that even the most unlikely partners can end up dancing a lively duet.

-------

And here is the introduction section that led to this literature review:
[[INTRODUCTION]]
Air pollution is a pervasive issue that plagues global communities, akin to a relentless game of "whack-a-mole" where one problem pops up as soon as another is squashed. The city of Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, has been no exception to this, grappling with its own share of air quality challenges despite being surrounded by picturesque lakes and scenic countryside. However, in a plot twist that would make even the most seasoned detective scratch their head in befuddlement, our investigation led us to an unexpected co-conspirator in the form of kerosene consumption in Japan.
The connection between these seemingly disparate entities raised eyebrows more than a celebrity sighting at a local supermarket. Through meticulous data analysis and rigorous statistical methods, we uncovered a relationship so compelling that it rivaled even the most dramatic reality TV plotlines. It was as if the air pollution in Fond du Lac and the kerosene in Japan were engaged in a clandestine liaison, with each one affecting the other in ways that left us pondering whether the laws of physics had taken a vacation.
As we embarked on this research endeavor, we were met with skepticism as sharp as a statistician's razor. After all, what could the sulfurous fumes of Fond du Lac possibly have in common with the kerosene lamps of Japan? Yet, the numbers don't lie, much like a polygraph machine in a police interrogation room. Our findings revealed a relationship so robust that it made us wonder if these two entities were pen pals exchanging air samples and fuel consumption data through international post.
The implications of our findings go beyond the immediate shock value of discovering this unlikely linkage. It prompts us to rethink our understanding of air pollution and its far-reaching effects, urging us to consider the ramifications of a world where geographical boundaries seem as permeable as a sieve. After all, the world is no stranger to unexpected alliances, from peanut butter and jelly to salt and caramel, and it appears that air pollution and kerosene may have joined this eclectic club.
In the following sections, we will delve into the intricate web of connections between air pollution in Fond du Lac and kerosene usage in Japan, unraveling the mystery behind their unlikely union and shedding light on the broader implications for global environmental research. As we navigate this labyrinth of atmospheric science and energy consumption, prepare to be as astonished as a chemist discovering a new element, for the dance of air pollution and kerosene consumption may just become the greatest show on earth.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]



ChatGPT:
[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

The literature on air pollution and its diverse sources, factors, and impacts is as extensive as a dictionary in a language with an absurd number of dialects. Smith et al. (2018) meticulously detail the detrimental effects of air pollution on human health, painting a grim picture that rivals the somber atmosphere of a black-and-white film noir. Similarly, Doe and Jones (2016) delve into the economic ramifications of air pollution, highlighting the financial burden it places on societies like a lead weight tied to an already overladen camel.

Amidst this serious and informative literature, our investigation stumbled upon an unexpected connection that had us scratching our heads in disbelief. As we sifted through the works of serious academics, we couldn't help but feel like detectives stumbling across a plot twist in a crime novel. And like a circus performer balancing on a unicycle, we found ourselves venturing into the realm of unlikely connections and unexpected correlations.

The connection between air pollution in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and kerosene consumption in Japan may seem as baffling as a cat trying to understand quantum physics, but our findings point to a relationship that is more fascinating than a magician's disappearing act. As we perused the research, it became clear that the intertwining of these two seemingly unrelated entities was as enigmatic as a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma.

Delving deeper into the literature, we find ourselves tiptoeing into the realm of environmental sociology, seeking to understand the human behaviors and social systems that underpin the phenomenon of air pollution. "The Silent Spring" by Rachel Carson (1962) stands as a testament to the transformative power of environmental literature, much like a caterpillar emerging as a butterfly after a period of metamorphosis. Furthermore, "Collapse: How Societies Choose to Fail or Succeed" by Jared Diamond (2005) offers valuable insights into the intricate dance between human societies and their natural environments, reminiscent of a carefully choreographed ballet on the world stage.

However, as we veer into the realm of unlikely connections, we stumble across works of fiction that seem as if they could have a tangential link to our perplexing discovery. With titles like "The Air He Breathes" by Brittainy C. Cherry and "Kerosene: A Novel" by Chris Wooding, it's as if the literary world is attempting to whisper hints of something uncanny lurking beneath the surface, much like a ghostly apparition in a haunted house.

A surprising twist in this web of literature comes in the form of popular internet memes that depict air pollution and kerosene usage in humorous and unexpected ways. Memes featuring a befuddled Pikachu surrounded by smog, with the caption "Trying to understand the connection between Fond du Lac and Japan like," illustrate the confounding nature of our research question. Similarly, memes portraying kerosene lamps with thought bubbles containing seemingly unrelated air pollution statistics add an element of playfulness to an otherwise perplexing topic.

In the light of these diverse literary influences, our research embarks on a journey that combines the rigors of scientific inquiry with the whimsy of unexpected connections, aiming to unravel the enigma of the unlikely union between air pollution in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and kerosene consumption in Japan. As we undertake this endeavor, we find ourselves propelled forward by the curiosity of unearthing hidden connections and the allure of shedding light on the uncanny correlation that has captured our academic gaze.


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 Fond du Lac, Wisconsin and Kerosene used in Japan. Make lots of jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

Your research team collected data from all across the internet, but mostly just used information from Environmental Protection Agency and Energy Information Administration . You used data from 1984 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]]
Gasping for Air: An Unlikely Union Between Air Pollution in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and Kerosene Consumption in Japan

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we delve deep into the surprising connection between air pollution levels in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and the consumption of kerosene in Japan. While initially, we were as skeptical as a statistician stuck in a room with only a broken calculator, our research uncovered a correlation coefficient of 0.6812030 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning from 1984 to 2022.

As we sifted through the data from the Environmental Protection Agency and the Energy Information Administration, we couldn't help but marvel at the unlikely bond that seemed to exist between the two seemingly unrelated entities. It was as if the air pollution in Fond du Lac was reaching out across the globe, attempting to form a chemical bond with the kerosene consumption in Japan.

So, as much as the connection seemed as improbable as a penguin doing ballet, our findings indicate a significant relationship between these two factors. Our findings highlight the need for further investigation into the intricacies of global pollution and the unexpected ways in which different regions can influence each other. After all, in the waltz of atmospheric chemistry, it appears that even the most unlikely partners can end up dancing a lively duet.

[[INTRODUCTION]]
Air pollution is a pervasive issue that plagues global communities, akin to a relentless game of "whack-a-mole" where one problem pops up as soon as another is squashed. The city of Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, has been no exception to this, grappling with its own share of air quality challenges despite being surrounded by picturesque lakes and scenic countryside. However, in a plot twist that would make even the most seasoned detective scratch their head in befuddlement, our investigation led us to an unexpected co-conspirator in the form of kerosene consumption in Japan.
The connection between these seemingly disparate entities raised eyebrows more than a celebrity sighting at a local supermarket. Through meticulous data analysis and rigorous statistical methods, we uncovered a relationship so compelling that it rivaled even the most dramatic reality TV plotlines. It was as if the air pollution in Fond du Lac and the kerosene in Japan were engaged in a clandestine liaison, with each one affecting the other in ways that left us pondering whether the laws of physics had taken a vacation.
As we embarked on this research endeavor, we were met with skepticism as sharp as a statistician's razor. After all, what could the sulfurous fumes of Fond du Lac possibly have in common with the kerosene lamps of Japan? Yet, the numbers don't lie, much like a polygraph machine in a police interrogation room. Our findings revealed a relationship so robust that it made us wonder if these two entities were pen pals exchanging air samples and fuel consumption data through international post.
The implications of our findings go beyond the immediate shock value of discovering this unlikely linkage. It prompts us to rethink our understanding of air pollution and its far-reaching effects, urging us to consider the ramifications of a world where geographical boundaries seem as permeable as a sieve. After all, the world is no stranger to unexpected alliances, from peanut butter and jelly to salt and caramel, and it appears that air pollution and kerosene may have joined this eclectic club.
In the following sections, we will delve into the intricate web of connections between air pollution in Fond du Lac and kerosene usage in Japan, unraveling the mystery behind their unlikely union and shedding light on the broader implications for global environmental research. As we navigate this labyrinth of atmospheric science and energy consumption, prepare to be as astonished as a chemist discovering a new element, for the dance of air pollution and kerosene consumption may just become the greatest show on earth.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[METHODOLOGY]]



ChatGPT:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

To unravel the enigmatic entanglement between the air pollution in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and the kerosene consumption in Japan, our research team employed a methodology as complex and multifaceted as a Rubik's cube thrown into a tornado. Assembling data from the Environmental Protection Agency and the Energy Information Administration, we sifted through a veritable treasure trove of information, akin to a parched explorer stumbling upon an oasis in the desert.

Our data collection spanned the years from 1984 to 2022, encompassing a period long enough to make a mayfly's lifespan seem like an eternity in comparison. We employed state-of-the-art statistical analysis, carrying out intricate regression modeling and correlation assessments with an attention to detail that would make Albert Einstein do a double-take.

In the first step of our uniquely convoluted methodology, we compiled air pollution data from Fond du Lac with the same perseverance as a determined toddler trying to fit a square block into a round hole. Simultaneously, we tracked kerosene consumption in Japan with a diligence that rivaled a detective pursuing a tenacious suspect through the dimly lit alleyways of a film noir.

Employing mathematical models so complex they would make a quantum physicist's head spin, we cross-referenced these datasets with a precision that would make a Swiss watchmaker blush. The resulting analysis was as comprehensive as a banquet feast, with enough graphs, charts, and spreadsheets to rival a PowerPoint presentation at a corporate headquarters.

To ensure the validity and reliability of our findings, we subjected our analysis to rigorous scrutiny, applying statistical tests more stringent than a bouncer at an exclusive club. Every potential confounding factor was contemplated and controlled for, with a thoroughness that would make a cattle rancher at a rodeo proud.

In summary, our research methodology, while as intricate as a Rube Goldberg machine, provided a robust framework for probing the unlikely relationship between air pollution in Fond du Lac and kerosene consumption in Japan, and allowed us to reveal this unexpected pairing that was more surprising than finding a shark in a pool.


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 Fond du Lac, Wisconsin and Kerosene used in Japan. Make lots of jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

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

For the time period 1984 to 2022, you found a correlation 0.6812030, r-squared of 0.4640375, 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]]
Gasping for Air: An Unlikely Union Between Air Pollution in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and Kerosene Consumption in Japan

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we delve deep into the surprising connection between air pollution levels in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and the consumption of kerosene in Japan. While initially, we were as skeptical as a statistician stuck in a room with only a broken calculator, our research uncovered a correlation coefficient of 0.6812030 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning from 1984 to 2022.

As we sifted through the data from the Environmental Protection Agency and the Energy Information Administration, we couldn't help but marvel at the unlikely bond that seemed to exist between the two seemingly unrelated entities. It was as if the air pollution in Fond du Lac was reaching out across the globe, attempting to form a chemical bond with the kerosene consumption in Japan.

So, as much as the connection seemed as improbable as a penguin doing ballet, our findings indicate a significant relationship between these two factors. Our findings highlight the need for further investigation into the intricacies of global pollution and the unexpected ways in which different regions can influence each other. After all, in the waltz of atmospheric chemistry, it appears that even the most unlikely partners can end up dancing a lively duet.

-------

And here is the methodology section that led to this result:
[[METHODOLOGY]]
Air pollution is a pervasive issue that plagues global communities, akin to a relentless game of "whack-a-mole" where one problem pops up as soon as another is squashed. The city of Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, has been no exception to this, grappling with its own share of air quality challenges despite being surrounded by picturesque lakes and scenic countryside. However, in a plot twist that would make even the most seasoned detective scratch their head in befuddlement, our investigation led us to an unexpected co-conspirator in the form of kerosene consumption in Japan.
The connection between these seemingly disparate entities raised eyebrows more than a celebrity sighting at a local supermarket. Through meticulous data analysis and rigorous statistical methods, we uncovered a relationship so compelling that it rivaled even the most dramatic reality TV plotlines. It was as if the air pollution in Fond du Lac and the kerosene in Japan were engaged in a clandestine liaison, with each one affecting the other in ways that left us pondering whether the laws of physics had taken a vacation.
As we embarked on this research endeavor, we were met with skepticism as sharp as a statistician's razor. After all, what could the sulfurous fumes of Fond du Lac possibly have in common with the kerosene lamps of Japan? Yet, the numbers don't lie, much like a polygraph machine in a police interrogation room. Our findings revealed a relationship so robust that it made us wonder if these two entities were pen pals exchanging air samples and fuel consumption data through international post.
The implications of our findings go beyond the immediate shock value of discovering this unlikely linkage. It prompts us to rethink our understanding of air pollution and its far-reaching effects, urging us to consider the ramifications of a world where geographical boundaries seem as permeable as a sieve. After all, the world is no stranger to unexpected alliances, from peanut butter and jelly to salt and caramel, and it appears that air pollution and kerosene may have joined this eclectic club.
In the following sections, we will delve into the intricate web of connections between air pollution in Fond du Lac and kerosene usage in Japan, unraveling the mystery behind their unlikely union and shedding light on the broader implications for global environmental research. As we navigate this labyrinth of atmospheric science and energy consumption, prepare to be as astonished as a chemist discovering a new element, for the dance of air pollution and kerosene consumption may just become the greatest show on earth.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[RESULTS]]



ChatGPT:

[[RESULTS]]

Our data analysis revealed a correlation coefficient of 0.6812030, indicating a moderately strong positive relationship between air pollution levels in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and kerosene consumption in Japan. The R-squared value of 0.4640375 suggests that approximately 46% of the variability in air pollution can be explained by kerosene consumption. This relationship was found to be statistically significant at p < 0.01, indicating that it is highly unlikely that these findings are due to random chance.

Fig. 1 depicts a scatterplot illustrating the observed correlation between air pollution in Fond du Lac and kerosene usage in Japan, showcasing the robust connection between these seemingly unrelated variables. The scatterplot paints a vivid picture of their unlikely union, much like a masterpiece crafted by the hands of an eccentric artist.

Overall, these results shed light on the intricate relationship between local air pollution and global energy consumption, highlighting the interconnected nature of environmental issues across different regions. The bond between air pollution in Fond du Lac and kerosene consumption in Japan may be as unexpected as finding a polar bear in the Sahara, but our findings underscore the need for further research into the complexities of international pollution dynamics. After all, the world of environmental science is full of surprises, and this unlikely connection serves as a reminder of the inherent unpredictability of our planet's ecosystem.


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 Fond du Lac, Wisconsin and Kerosene used in Japan. Make lots of jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

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]]
Gasping for Air: An Unlikely Union Between Air Pollution in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and Kerosene Consumption in Japan

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we delve deep into the surprising connection between air pollution levels in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and the consumption of kerosene in Japan. While initially, we were as skeptical as a statistician stuck in a room with only a broken calculator, our research uncovered a correlation coefficient of 0.6812030 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning from 1984 to 2022.

As we sifted through the data from the Environmental Protection Agency and the Energy Information Administration, we couldn't help but marvel at the unlikely bond that seemed to exist between the two seemingly unrelated entities. It was as if the air pollution in Fond du Lac was reaching out across the globe, attempting to form a chemical bond with the kerosene consumption in Japan.

So, as much as the connection seemed as improbable as a penguin doing ballet, our findings indicate a significant relationship between these two factors. Our findings highlight the need for further investigation into the intricacies of global pollution and the unexpected ways in which different regions can influence each other. After all, in the waltz of atmospheric chemistry, it appears that even the most unlikely partners can end up dancing a lively duet.

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]
The literature on air pollution and its diverse sources, factors, and impacts is as extensive as a dictionary in a language with an absurd number of dialects. Smith et al. (2018) meticulously detail the detrimental effects of air pollution on human health, painting a grim picture that rivals the somber atmosphere of a black-and-white film noir. Similarly, Doe and Jones (2016) delve into the economic ramifications of air pollution, highlighting the financial burden it places on societies like a lead weight tied to an already overladen camel.
Amidst this serious and informative literature, our investigation stumbled upon an unexpected connection that had us scratching our heads in disbelief. As we sifted through the works of serious academics, we couldn't help but feel like detectives stumbling across a plot twist in a crime novel. And like a circus performer balancing on a unicycle, we found ourselves venturing into the realm of unlikely connections and unexpected correlations.
The connection between air pollution in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and kerosene consumption in Japan may seem as baffling as a cat trying to understand quantum physics, but our findings point to a relationship that is more fascinating than a magician's disappearing act. As we perused the research, it became clear that the intertwining of these two seemingly unrelated entities was as enigmatic as a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma.
Delving deeper into the literature, we find ourselves tiptoeing into the realm of environmental sociology, seeking to understand the human behaviors and social systems that underpin the phenomenon of air pollution. "The Silent Spring" by Rachel Carson (1962) stands as a testament to the transformative power of environmental literature, much like a caterpillar emerging as a butterfly after a period of metamorphosis. Furthermore, "Collapse: How Societies Choose to Fail or Succeed" by Jared Diamond (2005) offers valuable insights into the intricate dance between human societies and their natural environments, reminiscent of a carefully choreographed ballet on the world stage.
However, as we veer into the realm of unlikely connections, we stumble across works of fiction that seem as if they could have a tangential link to our perplexing discovery. With titles like "The Air He Breathes" by Brittainy C. Cherry and "Kerosene: A Novel" by Chris Wooding, it's as if the literary world is attempting to whisper hints of something uncanny lurking beneath the surface, much like a ghostly apparition in a haunted house.
A surprising twist in this web of literature comes in the form of popular internet memes that depict air pollution and kerosene usage in humorous and unexpected ways. Memes featuring a befuddled Pikachu surrounded by smog, with the caption "Trying to understand the connection between Fond du Lac and Japan like," illustrate the confounding nature of our research question. Similarly, memes portraying kerosene lamps with thought bubbles containing seemingly unrelated air pollution statistics add an element of playfulness to an otherwise perplexing topic.
In the light of these diverse literary influences, our research embarks on a journey that combines the rigors of scientific inquiry with the whimsy of unexpected connections, aiming to unravel the enigma of the unlikely union between air pollution in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and kerosene consumption in Japan. As we undertake this endeavor, we find ourselves propelled forward by the curiosity of unearthing hidden connections and the allure of shedding light on the uncanny correlation that has captured our academic gaze.

[[RESULTS]]
Our data analysis revealed a correlation coefficient of 0.6812030, indicating a moderately strong positive relationship between air pollution levels in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and kerosene consumption in Japan. The R-squared value of 0.4640375 suggests that approximately 46% of the variability in air pollution can be explained by kerosene consumption. This relationship was found to be statistically significant at p < 0.01, indicating that it is highly unlikely that these findings are due to random chance.
Fig. 1 depicts a scatterplot illustrating the observed correlation between air pollution in Fond du Lac and kerosene usage in Japan, showcasing the robust connection between these seemingly unrelated variables. The scatterplot paints a vivid picture of their unlikely union, much like a masterpiece crafted by the hands of an eccentric artist.
Overall, these results shed light on the intricate relationship between local air pollution and global energy consumption, highlighting the interconnected nature of environmental issues across different regions. The bond between air pollution in Fond du Lac and kerosene consumption in Japan may be as unexpected as finding a polar bear in the Sahara, but our findings underscore the need for further research into the complexities of international pollution dynamics. After all, the world of environmental science is full of surprises, and this unlikely connection serves as a reminder of the inherent unpredictability of our planet's ecosystem.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[DISCUSSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[DISCUSSION]]

Our study set out to unravel the tangled web of air pollution in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and the consumption of kerosene in Japan, and boy, did we find ourselves in a situation more perplexing than a maze in a funhouse! The statistically significant correlation we uncovered between these disparate elements was as startling as finding a penguin lacing up ballet slippers. But jokes aside, our findings align with the prior research, demonstrating a relationship as strong as a sumo wrestler in a tug-of-war competition.

When we reflect on the literature review, we are reminded of the unexpected twists and turns of our investigation. Similar to a detective solving a case in a mystery novel, we felt as if we were uncovering clues that eventually led us to the surprising connection between air pollution in Fond du Lac and kerosene consumption in Japan. While some may have initially dismissed our exploration as whimsical as a cat trying to solve a Rubik's cube, our results solidify the importance of venturing into the realm of the unexpected in scientific inquiry. We were inspired by the complexities detailed in "Collapse: How Societies Choose to Fail or Succeed" and the transformative power of literature akin to a caterpillar becoming a butterfly, and our investigation confirms the transformative potential of unexpected connections in scientific study.

The statistical relationship between air pollution in Fond du Lac and kerosene usage in Japan, indicated by the strong correlation coefficient and the statistically significant p-value, supports the notion that global pollution dynamics can lead to peculiar partnerships. Our findings resonate with the notion that environmental issues transcend geographical boundaries, much like a migratory bird that respects no borders. This intertwining of local and global factors in shaping pollution patterns underscores the need for international collaboration to address environmental challenges effectively.

Despite the seemingly improbable nature of our discovery, the robust statistical evidence points to a tangible link between air pollution in Fond du Lac and kerosene consumption in Japan. Our results elevate the dialogue around unexpected environmental connections and remind us that the world of science is full of surprises, much like the unexpected delight of finding a winning lottery ticket in a pair of old jeans. As we continue our scientific pursuits, let us not forget the value of venturing into the uncharted territories of unlikely relationships, for it is often in the most unexpected places that we find the most profound insights.


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 Fond du Lac, Wisconsin and Kerosene used in Japan. Make lots of jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

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]]
Gasping for Air: An Unlikely Union Between Air Pollution in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and Kerosene Consumption in Japan

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we delve deep into the surprising connection between air pollution levels in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and the consumption of kerosene in Japan. While initially, we were as skeptical as a statistician stuck in a room with only a broken calculator, our research uncovered a correlation coefficient of 0.6812030 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning from 1984 to 2022.

As we sifted through the data from the Environmental Protection Agency and the Energy Information Administration, we couldn't help but marvel at the unlikely bond that seemed to exist between the two seemingly unrelated entities. It was as if the air pollution in Fond du Lac was reaching out across the globe, attempting to form a chemical bond with the kerosene consumption in Japan.

So, as much as the connection seemed as improbable as a penguin doing ballet, our findings indicate a significant relationship between these two factors. Our findings highlight the need for further investigation into the intricacies of global pollution and the unexpected ways in which different regions can influence each other. After all, in the waltz of atmospheric chemistry, it appears that even the most unlikely partners can end up dancing a lively duet.

[[INTRDUCTION]]
Air pollution is a pervasive issue that plagues global communities, akin to a relentless game of "whack-a-mole" where one problem pops up as soon as another is squashed. The city of Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, has been no exception to this, grappling with its own share of air quality challenges despite being surrounded by picturesque lakes and scenic countryside. However, in a plot twist that would make even the most seasoned detective scratch their head in befuddlement, our investigation led us to an unexpected co-conspirator in the form of kerosene consumption in Japan.
The connection between these seemingly disparate entities raised eyebrows more than a celebrity sighting at a local supermarket. Through meticulous data analysis and rigorous statistical methods, we uncovered a relationship so compelling that it rivaled even the most dramatic reality TV plotlines. It was as if the air pollution in Fond du Lac and the kerosene in Japan were engaged in a clandestine liaison, with each one affecting the other in ways that left us pondering whether the laws of physics had taken a vacation.
As we embarked on this research endeavor, we were met with skepticism as sharp as a statistician's razor. After all, what could the sulfurous fumes of Fond du Lac possibly have in common with the kerosene lamps of Japan? Yet, the numbers don't lie, much like a polygraph machine in a police interrogation room. Our findings revealed a relationship so robust that it made us wonder if these two entities were pen pals exchanging air samples and fuel consumption data through international post.
The implications of our findings go beyond the immediate shock value of discovering this unlikely linkage. It prompts us to rethink our understanding of air pollution and its far-reaching effects, urging us to consider the ramifications of a world where geographical boundaries seem as permeable as a sieve. After all, the world is no stranger to unexpected alliances, from peanut butter and jelly to salt and caramel, and it appears that air pollution and kerosene may have joined this eclectic club.
In the following sections, we will delve into the intricate web of connections between air pollution in Fond du Lac and kerosene usage in Japan, unraveling the mystery behind their unlikely union and shedding light on the broader implications for global environmental research. As we navigate this labyrinth of atmospheric science and energy consumption, prepare to be as astonished as a chemist discovering a new element, for the dance of air pollution and kerosene consumption may just become the greatest show on earth.

[[RESULTS]]
Our data analysis revealed a correlation coefficient of 0.6812030, indicating a moderately strong positive relationship between air pollution levels in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and kerosene consumption in Japan. The R-squared value of 0.4640375 suggests that approximately 46% of the variability in air pollution can be explained by kerosene consumption. This relationship was found to be statistically significant at p < 0.01, indicating that it is highly unlikely that these findings are due to random chance.
Fig. 1 depicts a scatterplot illustrating the observed correlation between air pollution in Fond du Lac and kerosene usage in Japan, showcasing the robust connection between these seemingly unrelated variables. The scatterplot paints a vivid picture of their unlikely union, much like a masterpiece crafted by the hands of an eccentric artist.
Overall, these results shed light on the intricate relationship between local air pollution and global energy consumption, highlighting the interconnected nature of environmental issues across different regions. The bond between air pollution in Fond du Lac and kerosene consumption in Japan may be as unexpected as finding a polar bear in the Sahara, but our findings underscore the need for further research into the complexities of international pollution dynamics. After all, the world of environmental science is full of surprises, and this unlikely connection serves as a reminder of the inherent unpredictability of our planet's ecosystem.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[CONCLUSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[CONCLUSION]]

In conclusion, our research has unraveled a connection between air pollution in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and kerosene consumption in Japan that is as surprising as finding a pineapple on a pizza - unexpected, yet somehow compelling. The statistical analysis revealed a bond between these seemingly disparate entities, akin to a long-distance relationship sustained by the exchange of atmospheric elements and energy consumption data. This connection raises questions as profound as pondering the existence of a parallel universe where air pollution and kerosene engage in a cosmic tango across continents.

The implications of our findings stretch further than a rubber band in a physics experiment, highlighting the interwoven nature of environmental challenges on a global scale. Just as a ripple in one part of the ocean can create waves on the opposite shore, our study illuminates how air pollution and energy consumption can transcend geographic boundaries, like a giddy helium balloon floating freely across borders.

However, it is important to acknowledge that our research, much like a particularly stubborn gadget manual, has its limits. While we have shed light on this peculiar linkage, further investigation in this area may be as redundant as adding more vowels to the word "hmm." We firmly assert that the time has come to close the chapter on this unlikely duo of air pollution in Fond du Lac and kerosene consumption in Japan. With a wealth of pressing environmental enigmas awaiting our scholarly scrutiny, it's time to bid adieu to this conundrum and direct our attention to the next quizzical puzzle.

In the grand performance of scientific inquiry, our study has spotlighted an unexpected duet between air pollution and kerosene consumption, inviting researchers to embrace the whimsical unpredictability of our planet's chemical symphony. And as we take our final bow on this peculiar stage, we leave behind a legacy of discovery and a trail of puns that may just rival a stand-up comedy routine. After all, in the exhilarating dance of research, sometimes the most unlikely partners can create the most compelling performances.


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 Gasping for Air: An Unlikely Union Between Air Pollution in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and Kerosene Consumption in Japan. Respond only with the name of a fictional academic journal.

ChatGPT:

Journal of Environmental Interconnections


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 Gasping for Air: An Unlikely Union Between Air Pollution in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and Kerosene Consumption in Japan. Respond only with the name of a fictional organization.

ChatGPT:

The Global Environmental Conservation Institute


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 Gasping for Air: An Unlikely Union Between Air Pollution in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and Kerosene Consumption in Japan with an abstract of In this study, we delve deep into the surprising connection between air pollution levels in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and the consumption of kerosene in Japan. While initially, we were as skeptical as a statistician stuck in a room with only a broken calculator, our research uncovered a correlation coefficient of 0.6812030 and p < 0.01 for the period spanning from 1984 to 2022.
As we sifted through the data from the Environmental Protection Agency and the Energy Information Administration, we couldn't help but marvel at the unlikely bond that seemed to exist between the two seemingly unrelated entities. It was as if the air pollution in Fond du Lac was reaching out across the globe, attempting to form a chemical bond with the kerosene consumption in Japan.
So, as much as the connection seemed as improbable as a penguin doing ballet, our findings indicate a significant relationship between these two factors. Our findings highlight the need for further investigation into the intricacies of global pollution and the unexpected ways in which different regions can influence each other. After all, in the waltz of atmospheric chemistry, it appears that even the most unlikely partners can end up dancing a lively duet.

ChatGPT:

air pollution, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, kerosene consumption, Japan, correlation coefficient, Environmental Protection Agency, Energy Information Administration, global pollution, atmospheric chemistry, regional influence, pollution factors

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



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Data details

Air pollution in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
Detailed data title: Percentage of days with moderate or worse air quality in Fond du Lac, WI
Source: Environmental Protection Agency
See what else correlates with Air pollution in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin

Kerosene used in Japan
Detailed data title: Volume of kerosene used consumed in Japan in millions of barrels per day
Source: Energy Information Administration
See what else correlates with Kerosene used in Japan

Correlation r = 0.6812030 (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 = 0.4640375 (Coefficient of determination)
This means 46.4% of the change in the one variable (i.e., Kerosene used in Japan) is predictable based on the change in the other (i.e., Air pollution in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin) over the 39 years from 1984 through 2022.

p < 0.01, which is statistically significant(Null hypothesis significance test)
The p-value is 1.8E-6. 0.0000018136356594436451000000
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 0.68 in 0.00018% of random cases. Said differently, if you correlated 551,379 random variables You don't actually need 551 thousand 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 38 degrees of freedom, Degrees of freedom is a measure of how many free components we are testing. In this case it is 38 because we have two variables measured over a period of 39 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.

[ 0.47, 0.82 ] 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.
198419851986198719881989199019911992199319941995199619971998199920002001200220032004200520062007200820092010201120122013201420152016201720182019202020212022
Air pollution in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin (Bad air quality days)0.2622950.3154760.2369940.279330.4130430.3055560.170330.2065220.2303370.08152170.1306820.2065220.2849160.2295080.3750.2934780.1611110.2554350.3152170.2771740.1256540.3333330.2065220.2323230.1219510.1287130.08212560.1111110.2705310.1164020.1494850.1494850.1269840.08474580.1270490.03465350.05365850.1442310.0492611
Kerosene used in Japan (Million Barrels/Day)446.787425.786446.674442.901486.158462.027456.923469.06477.519484.899483.849508.43530.224497.789491.205508.433511.891528.014510.433516.132473.361511.31456.685400.203362.306348.447350.266335.937345.492312.348298.266275.732284.899288.449266.734248.584245.216236.627227.885




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. Y-axis doesn't start at zero: I truncated the Y-axes of the graph above. I also used a line graph, which makes the visual connection stand out more than it deserves. Nothing against line graphs. They are great at telling a story when you have linear data! But visually it is deceptive because the only data is at the points on the graph, not the lines on the graph. In between each point, the data could have been doing anything. Like going for a random walk by itself!
    Mathematically what I showed is true, but it is intentionally misleading. Below is the same chart but with both Y-axes starting at zero.




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([0.262295,0.315476,0.236994,0.27933,0.413043,0.305556,0.17033,0.206522,0.230337,0.0815217,0.130682,0.206522,0.284916,0.229508,0.375,0.293478,0.161111,0.255435,0.315217,0.277174,0.125654,0.333333,0.206522,0.232323,0.121951,0.128713,0.0821256,0.111111,0.270531,0.116402,0.149485,0.149485,0.126984,0.0847458,0.127049,0.0346535,0.0536585,0.144231,0.0492611,])
array_2 = np.array([446.787,425.786,446.674,442.901,486.158,462.027,456.923,469.06,477.519,484.899,483.849,508.43,530.224,497.789,491.205,508.433,511.891,528.014,510.433,516.132,473.361,511.31,456.685,400.203,362.306,348.447,350.266,335.937,345.492,312.348,298.266,275.732,284.899,288.449,266.734,248.584,245.216,236.627,227.885,])
array_1_name = "Air pollution in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin"
array_2_name = "Kerosene used in Japan"

# 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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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.

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Correlation ID: 4062 · Black Variable ID: 21695 · Red Variable ID: 24577
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