The statement r_xy  0 represents ______.

A) the null hypothesis
B) the t statistic
C) the mean difference
D) the research hypothesis

The statement r_xy  0 is likely representing the research hypothesis, as it includes variables and an indication of difference. The null hypothesis would include an equal sign and no indication of a difference. The t statistic and mean difference are both statistical measures that are calculated during hypothesis testing and are not represented in this statement.