interpolation
<mathematics, algorithm> A mathematical procedure which estimates values
of a function at positions between listed or given values. Interpolation works
by fitting a "curve" (i.e. a function) to two or more given points and then
applying this function to the required input. Example uses are calculating
trigonometric functions from tables and audio waveform sythesis.
The simplest form of interpolation is where a function, f(x), is estimated by
drawing a straight line ("linear interpolation") between the nearest given
points on either side of the required input value:
f(x) ~ f(x1) + (f(x2) - f(x1))(x-x1)/(x2 - x1)
There are many variations using more than two points or higher degree
polynomial functions. The technique can also be extended to
functions of more than one input.
(1997-07-14)
Nearby terms:
interoperability « interoperable database « inter-packet gap
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interpreter
