Statistics proof: y = k x holds for a data set

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the statistical proof of a linear relationship represented by the equation y = kx, where k is a constant. Participants explore methods to demonstrate how well a set of experimental data points supports this relationship, including considerations of error estimates and confidence levels in the regression analysis.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about presenting the confidence of the error estimate for the regression line, specifically seeking to show that the error intercept is very small.
  • Another participant mentions the use of the chi-squared (##\chi^2##) statistic as a measure of goodness of fit, suggesting that visual inspection of results with error bars is also important.
  • There is a recognition that the task of proving the linear relationship is not straightforward, but not insurmountable, with references to additional resources for further study.
  • Links to external resources are shared, including discussions on regression line slope errors and goodness of fit from Wikipedia.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying levels of understanding and approaches to the problem, with no consensus on a definitive method or conclusion regarding the proof of the linear relationship.

Contextual Notes

Participants acknowledge the complexity of the problem and the need for careful consideration of measurement errors and systematic errors in their analysis.

avicenna
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Simple linear regression statistics:

If I have a linear relation (or wish to prove such a relation): y = k x where k = constant. I have a set of n experimental data points ...(y0, x0), (y1, x1)... measured with some error estimates.

Is there some way to present how well the n data points shows that the relation: y = kx is proven. What I have in mind is that the regression line will give an error intercept of the Y-axis, say e. Say e = 1.0 x 10^-5. What is the "confidence" for this error estimate.

I want to show error e to be very small say <1.0 10^-7. If I the measurement errors of (yi,xi) ... are very small, how will it help to show y=kx to be "very good" where y=k(1+e)x where e is very small.
 
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Google is your friend.

I learned about ##\chi^2## as a measure of goodness of fit. But that was long ago...

[edit] by the way, a visual inspection of the resluts (with error bars) is also a very good idea. Make sure all systematic errors are omitted when drawing the error baars
 
BvU said:
Google is your friend.

I learned about ##\chi^2## as a measure of goodness of fit. But that was long ago...

[edit] by the way, a visual inspection of the resluts (with error bars) is also a very good idea. Make sure all systematic errors are omitted when drawing the error baars
Thanks. I think I now have some idea of what I really wanted. It is not simple straightforward as I thought.
 

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