12. Regression

For the data points in the graphs below, which most likely suggests a quadratic relationship?

The data below shows the population of a small town (in 1000s) over a 9 year period. Using a graphing calculator, determine the linear & quadratic regression curves. Compare their $R^2$ values. Which model is a better fit for the data?

Sum of Squares Criterion In addition to the value of another measurement used to assess the quality of a model is the sum of squares of the residuals. Recall from Section 10-2 that a residual is (the difference between an observed y value and the value predicted from the model). Better models have smaller sums of squares. Refer to the U.S. population data in Table 10-7.

c. Verify that according to the sum of squares criterion, the quadratic model is better than the linear model.

Finding the Best Model

In Exercises 5–16, construct a scatterplot and identify the mathematical model that best fits the given data. Assume that the model is to be used only for the scope of the given data, and consider only linear, quadratic, logarithmic, exponential, and power models.

Sunspot Numbers Listed below in order by row are annual sunspot numbers beginning with 1980. Is the best model a good model? Carefully examine the scatterplot and identify the pattern of the points. Which of the models fits that pattern?

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