What is the purpose of a scatterplot?

The purpose of a scatterplot is to provide a visual representation of the relationship between two variables. In a scatterplot, each point represents a pair of values from two different datasets, with one variable plotted on the x-axis and the other on the y-axis. This allows for the observation of patterns, trends, or correlations between the variables. If the points tend to cluster in a linear pattern, it suggests a correlation, which can be positive, negative, or non-existent.

For example, if you are studying the relationship between hours studied and exam scores, a scatterplot would allow you to see how changes in study hours correspond to changes in scores. This visual format helps to quickly identify potential relationships, outliers, and the overall distribution of the data.

The other choices do not accurately describe the function of a scatterplot. A graphed representation of a single variable does not capture the relationship between two variables. Calculating standard deviation involves statistical formulas that do not relate to the visual display of data as in a scatterplot. A type of polynomial function is specific to algebraic expressions and does not pertain to the visualization of relationships between two data sets.