When looking at climate data, it is important to consider the difference between facts and possible inferences.

Question: After looking at the temperature and CO₂ data, what can we assume to be factual? What are some inferences that are not demonstrated conclusively in the data?

Consider the difference between correlation and causation. The data reveals a correlation between CO₂ concentrations and temperature. Generally, CO₂ concentrations are high when temperature is high, and vice versa. This correlation could be due to one factor causing another, but causation is not clearly demonstrated in the data.