The Journal of Rodent-Powered Energy Research (2024) 26, 57-72

Available online at www.tylervigen.com

ELSERVER

Burning Questions: The Kerosene Connection - A
Squirrely Correlation?
Cameron Hart, Alice Taylor, Gina P Tompkins
Center for Higher Learning; Madison, Wisconsin

KEYWORDS

kerosene consumption, El Salvador, household fuel, economic implications, environmentalimplications, internet search behavior, Google searches, "attacked by a squirrel", correlation
coefficient, statistical significance, Energy Information Administration, Google Trends,
interdisciplinary research, human behavior, interconnectedness, variables, underlying
mechanisms
Abstract
Kerosene, a commonly used household fuel in El Salvador, has long been a subject of interest in its
economic and environmental implications. However, the extent of its impact on seemingly unrelated
phenomena such as internet search behavior has been overlooked. In this study, we dive deep into theunlikely association between Kerosene consumption in El Salvador and Google searches for the peculiar
string "attacked by a squirrel". Leveraging data from the Energy Information Administration and Google
Trends, we uncover a surprising correlation that challenges conventional wisdom. Our analysis reveals astriking correlation coefficient of 0.9042740 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01,
covering the years 2004 to 2021. The implications of this unexpected linkage prompt critical reflections on
the interconnectedness of seemingly disparate events and underscore the need for further nuanced
investigation in interdisciplinary research. Despite the seemingly whimsical nature of the inquiry, thesefindings shed light on the intricate interconnectedness of human behavior and seemingly unrelated
variables, prompting a deeper consideration of the underlying mechanisms that unite the mundane andthe extraordinary.
Copyleft 2024 Center for Higher Learning. No rights reserved.

1. Introduction
Introduction

The study of correlations between
seemingly unrelated variables has longcaptured the imagination of researchers andThis paper is AI-generated, but the correlation and p-value are real.

More info: tylervigen.com/spurious-researchstatisticians alike. It is in this spirit ofcuriosity and unlikely connections that weembark on an investigation into the curious
relationshipbetween
Kerosene
consumption in El Salvador and theinexplicable surge in Google searches for"attacked by a squirrel".
Kerosene, a staple household fuel in many
regions, has typically been examinedthrough the lenses of economics, publichealth, and environmental impact. However,
little attention has been paid to its potential
ripple effects on the world of internet searchbehavior. Meanwhile, the peculiar phrase"attacked by a squirrel" has emerged as anenigmatic and, some might say, quirky
phenomenon within the realm of online
inquiries.
In this study, we harness the power of datafrom the Energy Information Administration
and Google Trends to uncover and analyze
the unexpected correlation between thesetwo disparate variables. Our statisticalanalysis yields a correlation coefficient of0.9042740, accompanied by a remarkably
significant p-value of less than 0.01,
spanning the years 2004 to 2021. Thesefindings, at first glance, may appear
whimsical, but they carry profound
implications for our understanding of theseemingly random dance of humanbehavior and the underlying forces that tie
togethertheordinaryandtheunconventional.
As we delve into this curious correlation, weinvite the reader to join us on a journey thatblends the rigor of statistical analysis withthe lighthearted curiosity that propels us toexplore uncharted territory. Through thisexploration, we seek to challenge
conventional boundaries of inquiry andprovokecontemplation
ontheinterconnectedness of seemingly unrelated
phenomena. In doing so, we hope to sparka reevaluation of the boundaries ofinterdisciplinary research and foster a
deeper appreciation for the intricate tapestry

that weaves together the mundane and theextraordinary.
So, let us don our statistical goggles andembark on an expedition that promises toilluminate the unexpected intersections of
Kerosene consumption and squirrel-related
searches, demonstrating the delightful
unpredictability that often accompanies thepursuit of scientific inquiry.

2. Literature Review
In the realm of energy consumption and its
societal ramifications, Smith (2015) delves
into the intricate web of household fuelusage in developing countries, shedding
light on the socioeconomic dynamics atplay. Similarly, Doe and Jones (2018) offer acomprehensive analysis of internet searchpatterns and the behavioral insights that canbe gleaned from them, paving the way for a
deeper understanding of the digitallandscape.
Moving beyond the immediate domains ofenergy economics and online behavior,
Williams and Brown (2009) present a
thought-provoking examination of wildlife
encounters and the psychological impacts
they may impart on individuals. This
exploration resonates with the unanticipatedsurge in searches for the phrase "attacked
by a squirrel," hinting at the curious
intersections of human-wildlife interactionsin the digital sphere.
On a more lighthearted note, "Squirrels: A
Cultural History" by Adams (2019) provides
a whimsical yet informative journey into thefolklore and cultural significance of thesefuzzy-tailed creatures. While not a scholarly
work per se, the charming anecdotes andhistorical tidbits woven into the narrative
offer a delightful backdrop against which toconsider the unexpected rise in squirrelrelated internet queries.
In the realm of fiction, the works of author
Acorn include "The Secret Life of Squirrels"

This paper is AI-generated, but the correlation and p-value are real.

More info: tylervigen.com/spurious-researchseries which, while certainly not rigorous
scientific literature, captures the imagination
with its playful portrayal of squirrel antics.
The parallel between these fictional
musings and the genuine curiosity exhibitedin internet searches for squirrel-related
encounters lends credence to the notionthat truth can be stranger than fiction.
In the pursuit of understanding humanbehavior and its quirky inclinations, ourresearchers also turned their attention to
television shows that might offer insight into
the fascination with squirrel encounters. The
investigative nature of "CSI: Squirrel Squad"
and the comedic take on urban wildlife in"Parks and Recreation" sparked incidental
curiosity, leading to a deeper contemplationof the unexpected intersections between
real-world events and the pop culture
narratives that color our lives.
Thus, the mosaic of literature and culturalrepresentations surrounding our subject
matter lays the groundwork for a
multidimensional exploration of the unlikely
correlation between Kerosene consumption
in El Salvador and the surge in Google
searches for "attacked by a squirrel". While
playfulinitsunderpinnings,
thisinvestigation carries significant implications
for our understanding of human behavior,
the digital landscape, and the complex
tapestry of interconnected phenomena thatshape our world.

3. Our approach & methods
To unravel the enigmatic entanglement of
Kerosene consumption and the curious
fascination with squirrel attacks, ourresearch team adopted a multifaceted
approach that combined quantitative
analysis and a healthy dose of speculativewhimsy.
Data Collection:
Our first foray into this zany expedition
involved the collection of Kerosene

consumption data from the EnergyInformation Administration, which provided acomprehensive
overview
ofannual
Kerosene usage in the vibrant and eversurprising land of El Salvador. Meanwhile,
to gauge the digital intrigue surrounding
squirrel skirmishes, we ventured into theuntamed wilderness of Google Trends,
capturing the ebb and flow of "attacked by asquirrel" searches from the boundless
expanse of the world wide web. These
datasets, spanning the years 2004 to 2021,
formed the bedrock of our investigative
escapade.
Normalization and Standardization:
Armed with our troves of data, we set about
the noble task of wrangling these disparate
streams into a coherent and harmonious
format. Our team skillfully normalized theKerosene consumption figures to adjust for
population growth, economic fluctuations,and the mercurial whims of consumer
behavior. Simultaneously, we standardized
the shadowy statistics of squirrel-inflicted
search queries, ensuring that our crossdimensional voyages would yield reliable
and comparable findings.
Statistical Alchemy:
The heart of our exploration lay in thestatistical cauldron, where we summoned
the spectral forces of correlation analysis.
With a deft flick of the wrist and a whispered
incantation to the elusive spirits of p-values,
we conjured forth the otherworldly metrics
that would govern our journey. Employing
robust statistical software, we computed thecorrelation coefficient to unveil the spectral
ties between Kerosene consumption andthe squirrel-related cyber odyssey. This
unearthedcorrelation
coefficient,astaggering 0.9042740, sent ripples ofastonishment through our intrepid ranks,
affirming the presence of a potent
gravitational pull between these seemingly
incongruous phenomena.
Significance Testing:This paper is AI-generated, but the correlation and p-value are real.

More info: tylervigen.com/spurious-researchNo arcane exploration would be complete
without subjecting our findings to theunforgiving gauntlet of significance testing.
Thus, we administered the sacred rites ofhypothesis testing, unleashing the fierce
and unyielding p-value to render judgment
upon our correlation coefficient. The
resulting p-value, commanding submission
at values less than 0.01, stood as a resolute
testament to the undeniable significance of
the unearthed link.
Ethical Considerations:
Amidst the fervor of our statistical exploits,
we remained steadfast in our dedication toscientific integrity and ethical rigor. Our data
manipulations adhered to the virtuous
principles
oftransparency
andreproducibility, and our statistical sorcery
was conducted with utmost respect for thesanctity of empirical inquiry.
In summary, our exhaustive methodologicalpilgrimage traversed the realms of data
gathering,normalization,
statisticalconjuring, and ethical fortitude, culminatingin the appending of our academic seal to
the remarkable findings that beckon us into
the boundless frontier of interdisciplinary
exploration.

found to be less than 0.01, signifying astatistically significant relationship between
the two variables.
Figure 1 portrays a scatterplot depicting thestriking correlation between Kerosene
consumption in El Salvador and Google
searches for "attacked by a squirrel". The
data points form a clear, upward-sloping
trend, affirming the strength of the positive
association
betweenthese
unusualphenomena.
The unexpected connection uncovered inthisanalysis
challenges
traditional
perspectives and underscores the intricate
interplay between apparently disparate
domains.
Thefindings
promptcontemplation on the intricate web of
causation and the peculiar pathways
through which human behavior and societal
influences manifest themselves. While theinitial premise of this investigation may
appear whimsical, the outcomes serve as areminder of the intriguing and often
unpredictable nature of statistical inquiry.

4. Results
The statistical analysis of the relationshipbetween Kerosene consumption in El
Salvador and Google searches for "attackedby a squirrel" yielded a remarkably strongcorrelation. Our findings revealed acorrelation
coefficientof0.9042740,
indicating a robust positive association
betweenthese
seeminglyunrelatedvariables. Additionally, the coefficient ofdetermination (r-squared) was calculated to
be0.8177115,
suggestingthat
approximately 81.77% of the variability in"attacked by a squirrel" searches can beexplained by variations in Kerosene
consumption. Furthermore, the p-value wasFigure 1. Scatterplot of the variables by year

This unexpected linkage between Kerosene
consumption and "attacked by a squirrel"searches invites further exploration into theunderlying mechanisms that bridge the gap
between everyday fuel usage and internet
search behavior. The findings of this study
accentuate the serendipitous discoveries
that can emerge from the unearthing ofThis paper is AI-generated, but the correlation and p-value are real.

More info: tylervigen.com/spurious-researchpeculiar
correlations,reinforcing
theimportance of embracing the unexpected inscientific exploration.

5. Discussion
Theastounding
correlation
between
Kerosene consumption in El Salvador andGoogle searches for "attacked by a squirrel"
undeniably defies traditional expectations,challenging researchers to navigate thepeculiar twists and turns of statisticalinquiry. Our findings not only substantiate
earlier research on the interconnectednessof seemingly distinct phenomena but also
beckon forth a cascade of unexpected
realizations akin to a squirrel leaping frombranch to branch.
The literature review, while tailored toscholarly pursuits, uncovers uncharted
territories that whisper their secrets to thosewith a keen eye. As we revisit the whimsicalinterludes of "Squirrels: A Cultural History"by Adams, the notion of squirrels as morethan just fuzzy-tailed creatures gains
traction, paralleling the unforeseen surge ininternet searches for squirrel-related
encounters. Like squirrels scurrying throughthe foliage, the scholarly and fictionalsources surrounding our subject matterconverge to form a multidimensional canopy
ofinsight,
allowing ourteamto
unapologetically embrace the enigmaticallure of unexpected correlations.
Our results bolster the previously alluded
scholarly works, affirming the intricate webof causation and the cryptic pathways thatintertwine human behavior and societal
influences. The robust positive association
between Kerosene consumption and"attacked by a squirrel" searches, boastinga correlation coefficient of 0.9042740 and acoefficient of determination of 0.8177115,
serves as a testament to the fortuitous
discoveries that lurk within the annals ofstatistical adventuring.

As scientific voyagers charting unexploredterritories, we must not shy away from theunconventional, for it is in the interstitialspaces of unpredictability that hidden gems
often lay nestled. This study, though birthedfrom seemingly whimsical premises,
encapsulates the essence of scientificinquiry as a vessel bound toward theunanticipated, compelling scholars to dancewith the unexpected and brave thetempestuous currents of statistical caprice.
In conclusion, the compelling correlation
between Kerosene usage and "attacked bya squirrel" searches illuminates thecaptivating and sometimes bewildering
tapestry of integrated phenomena. Thesefindings prod the scientific community tocultivate a spirit of audacious exploration,
beckoning forth the unanticipated andunveiling the extraordinary amidst theseemingly mundane.

6. Conclusion
In conclusion, our study has shed light ontheunexpected
correlation
between
Kerosene consumption in El Salvador andGoogle searches for "attacked by asquirrel". The remarkably strong correlation
coefficient of 0.9042740 and the statisticallysignificant p-value of less than 0.01 haveled us to ponder the delightful peculiarity of
humanbehavior
andtheinterconnectedness of seemingly unrelated
variables. The scatterplot in Figure 1 serves
as a visual testament to the surprisingsynchrony
betweenthesedisparate
phenomena, leaving us marveling at theunpredictable dance of statistical inquiry.
While the notion of Kerosene fuel sparking
an uptick in squirrel-related searches may
seem whimsical at first glance, the robust
statistical evidence suggests a substantive
linkage. The resilience of the correlation
prompts contemplation on the intricate
tapestry of societal influences and theidiosyncratic pathways through which

This paper is AI-generated, but the correlation and p-value are real.

More info: tylervigen.com/spurious-researchseemingly disjointed events intersect. This
study serves as a pleasing reminder of theunpredictability that often accompanies thepursuit of scientific inquiry, revealing theunexpected treasures that lie in the vastlandscape of statistical exploration.
As we contemplate the implications of ourfindings, we must resist the temptation tosquirrel away these results without furtherexamination.
However,
thepeculiar
correlation uncovered may have reached
the acorn of its insights, and it seems
unlikely that further research in this area will
yield substantial walnuts – I mean, results.
Therefore, we assert, with a twinge ofdisappointment, that no more research isneeded in this particular area of Kerosene
and squirrel-related search behavior. Afterall, it's time to nut up or shut up when it
comes to statistical investigations.
And with that, we bid adieu to the curious
tale of Kerosene and squirrel searches,leaving behind a trail of statisticalbreadcrumbs for future explorers to follow.

This paper is AI-generated, but the correlation and p-value are real.

More info: tylervigen.com/spurious-research