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General Science => General Science => Topic started by: scientizscht on 02/10/2020 22:06:49

Title: How can I determine the relationship between two variables?
Post by: scientizscht on 02/10/2020 22:06:49

Hello

I have data of a y,x1,x2 where x1 and x2 are independent variables.

How can I assess if the x1 or x2 are related to y and how strongly?

Also, is it possible to determine if there is a causation or simply correlation?

Thanks!

Title: Re: How can I determine the relationship between two variables?
Post by: alancalverd on 02/10/2020 22:48:59

https://www.educba.com/3d-scatter-plot-in-excel  will give you a quick insight into a 3-dimensional correlation, using the spreadsheet you probably already have (or can buy very cheaply).

Proof of causation requires that you hold x1 or x2 constant and see how y changes when you vary the other.

Title: Re: How can I determine the relationship between two variables?
Post by: evan_au on 02/10/2020 22:55:36

You can use a correlation function on the two variables separately, to see which has the greater correlation.

There are also multi-variable correlation functions.

But these work best if there is a linear relationship (or it can be transformed into a linear relationship).

Title: Re: How can I determine the relationship between two variables?
Post by: Bored chemist on 02/10/2020 23:44:10

Quote from: scientizscht on 02/10/2020 22:06:49

Also, is it possible to determine if there is a causation or simply correlation?

Mathematically, no.