If the association between two variables is accidental and not causal,the relationship between the variables is:

A) connected
B) independent
C) dependent
D) spurious
E) controlled

Spurious

Pertaining to a false relationship where two variables appear directly related but are actually connected through a third variable.

Causal

Pertaining to a cause-and-effect relationship, where one event (the cause) is understood to precipitate another event or condition (the effect).