The correct answer is: B. regression analysis
Regression analysis is a statistical method that is used to estimate the relationship between two or more variables. It is a popular technique for forecasting because it can be used to predict future values of a variable based on the values of other variables that are known.
Correlation analysis is a statistical method that is used to measure the strength of the relationship between two variables. It is not a forecasting technique, but it can be used to identify variables that may be useful for forecasting.
Linear programming is a mathematical method that is used to find the best solution to a problem with multiple constraints. It is not a forecasting technique, but it can be used to optimize the use of resources.
Monte Carlo simulation is a statistical method that is used to estimate the probability of an event occurring. It is not a forecasting technique, but it can be used to assess the uncertainty in a forecast.
In conclusion, regression analysis is the correct answer because it is a statistical method that is used to estimate the relationship between two or more variables. It is a popular technique for forecasting because it can be used to predict future values of a variable based on the values of other variables that are known.