We can often use a Pearson correlation even when a relationship is curvilinear. This is because
A) a straight line will often fit the data remarkably well.
B) you can always calculate a correlation with any set of data.
C) the correlation coefficient doesn't care if the relationship is curvilinear.
D) there is no alternative.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A Pearson correlation can still be useful in determining the strength and direction of the relationship between two variables, even if the relationship is curvilinear. In some cases, a straight line can still fit the data well and provide a good estimate of the correlation coefficient. However, it is important to also examine the scatterplot of the data to confirm that a linear relationship is appropriate before using a Pearson correlation.

We Can Often Use a Pearson Correlation Even When a Relationship