A scatterplot shows a curved relationship between 2 variables. What methods can be used to analyze the relationship between these variables?
A) Fit an exponential or quadratic function
B) Summarize the strength of the association by using correlation and R2.
C) Transform one or both of the variables by using square root, logarithm, or reciprocal
Functions
D) A and C
E) All of the above

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Both fitting an exponential or quadratic function (A) and transforming one or both variables (C) are possible methods to analyze a curved relationship between two variables. The best approach may vary depending on the specific data and context. Correlation and R2 (B) can still provide some information about the strength and direction of the association, but they may not fully capture the nonlinear relationship. Therefore, the best choice is to use both A and C.

A Scatterplot Shows a Curved Relationship Between 2 Variables