Negative linear relationship

Definition

A negative linear relationship is a type of correlation where, as one variable increases, the other decreases. This is represented by a downward-sloping line on a scatter plot.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. A negative linear relationship has a correlation coefficient between -1 and 0.
2. In a scatter plot with a negative linear relationship, points tend to align along a descending straight line.
3. The strength of the negative relationship increases as the correlation coefficient approaches -1.
4. Negative linear relationships are often analyzed using simple linear regression to predict values.
5. Outliers can affect the perceived strength and direction of the negative linear relationship.

Review Questions

• What does it mean when two variables have a negative linear relationship?
• How would you identify a negative linear relationship in a scatter plot?
• What range of values can the correlation coefficient take in a negative linear relationship?

Related terms

Correlation Coefficient: A statistical measure that describes the degree and direction of association between two variables.

Scatter Plot: A graph that uses dots to represent values obtained for two different variables, one plotted along the x-axis and the other along the y-axis.

Simple Linear Regression: A method to predict the value of one variable based on the value of another by fitting a straight line through observed data points.