Final answer:The least predictable pattern of time-series variation is the random component, which accounts for fluctuations not explained by trend, seasonal, or cyclical patterns. The answer is option A.Explanation:The least predictable pattern of​ time-series variation is referred to as random. This component of a time series represents fluctuations that cannot be explained by the other components such as trend, seasonal, or cyclical patterns. For instance, in agriculture, random components may be influenced by diverse factors like weather, diseases, political changes, or unexpected shifts in demand or supply. When analyzing a time series in fields such as economics or business, identifying and understanding the random component is crucial as it represents the noise or irregular movements that are not accounted for by more systematic patterns.Other components of a time series include the seasonal component, which shows regular patterns over specific periods such as a year, often highlighted by repeated fluctuations in certain quarters. The cyclical component encompasses patterns that occur over several years with some form of regularity, often related to broader economic cycles. Unlike these predictable patterns, the random component captures the unpredictable and essentially non-recurring events that affect time series data....

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