Least Squares Method

Introduction

While it is possible to graphically plot data for extinction and color transformation coefficient determination, sometimes it is difficult to decide exactly where to draw a straight line. By using the method of least squares or linear regression analysis one can mathematically determine the slope and Y intercept of data that are in the form of a straight line without having to make a graph and physically draw a line between points.

While the results can be calculated by hand, a calculator or computer program can speed the calculations and provide more accurate results.

 

Equations

There are basically two equations used, one for the slope b and one for the Y intercept a.

Present Page Version as of 1 November 2006

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