Can you use non-linear variables in a linear regression model?

1 Answer
Mar 6, 2016

We can use linear regression model in non-linear relations in cases, where they can be expressed in linear form.

Explanation:

Let us assume a function such as #y=kx^a#, where #k# and #a# are two constants.

By taking logs of both sides, we get #logy=logk+alogx#, which can be written as #bary=bark+abarx#, a linear relation between #bary=logy# and #barx=logx#.

As the relation is linear, we can now use linear regression model. Hence, we can do this in cases where the non-linear elation can be expressed in linear form.