Cubic graphs to equation confusion

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the confusion regarding the shape of a graph derived from ADC values in a microcontroller application. The user initially believes the graph is cubic due to its "S" shape but encounters discrepancies when comparing it to standard cubic graphs, which typically resemble a backward "N." Participants suggest using software like LoggerPro or MATLAB to fit the data to a function and determine coefficients. The importance of correctly identifying the axes is emphasized, as swapping them can clarify the graph's nature.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of ADC (Analog-to-Digital Converter) principles
  • Familiarity with graphing concepts and function types
  • Basic knowledge of polynomial equations, specifically cubic functions
  • Experience with data analysis tools like Excel, LoggerPro, or MATLAB
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn how to use Excel's trendline feature for data fitting
  • Explore LoggerPro for advanced data analysis and graphing
  • Study MATLAB's curve fitting toolbox for polynomial regression
  • Research the vertical line test to differentiate between functions and non-functions
USEFUL FOR

Microcontroller developers, data analysts, and anyone involved in sensor data processing and graph interpretation will benefit from this discussion.

Siksissk
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Hi,

I have a sensor going into a microcontroller via a adc.

I have worked out the conversion from the adc value into real terms.

Now the math takes too long in code to run this. and a look up table with 1024 elements will fill my program memory very quickly.

So I have put the results into excel, and the graph has come up as a "S" shape, Now I believe this is a cubic graph, but my confusion lies that a general google search shows cubic graphs as backwards N shape, where as mine looks to be spun around by 90 degrees.

So,

1: is the graph I have, Cubic, or something else?
2: how can I work out the formula (a^3 + b^2 + c) from points in my graph?

Thanks
 
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Maybe you should post the print screen of the graph, in order to help us to recognize the type of function. Anyway, I think that Excel has a function to fit your data with a function, if there is the software automatically tells you the coefficents ;)
A software that does that is LoggerPro, and probably even Matlab can help you.
 
I think we really should see a picture of your plot, because it sounds like you don't actually have a function, unless you are accidentally plotting the dependent variable on the vertical axis and the independent variable on the horizontal axis, or if your curve is a very 'thin' s. For example, if your curve is "curvy" enough that it fails the vertical line test (a vertical line should only cross your curve at one point), then you don't have a function. However, if you swapped the horizontal and vertical axes by mistake, then you would have a function, because rotating it should make it pass the vertical line test.
 

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