Find the least squares approximation

[hsong9]

Homework Statement

Suppose a set of N data points {(x_k,y_k)}^N_k=1 appears to satisfy the relationship for some constants a and b. Find the least squares approximations for a and b.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

I really have no idea about this problem.

 

[fzero]

You don't say what the relationship is, but let's say it's some function that we'll call y=f(x,a,b). The object of a least squares fit is to find a and b such that the sum of squares

S = \sum_{k-1}^N (y_k - f(x_k,a,b))^2

is minimized.

 

[hsong9]

Thanks!
the relationship is y = ax + b/x.
Thus, S = Sigma ( y_k - (ax + b/x))^2, right?
and that's it?

 

[fzero]

Thanks!
the relationship is y = ax + b/x.
Thus, S = Sigma ( y_k - (ax + b/x))^2, right?
and that's it?

S = Sigma ( y_k - (a x_k + b/x_k))^2

and you must minimize this as a function of a and b.

 

[hsong9]

Thanks!
So, to minimize S, set partial derivative for a and b equals to zero.
right?
Thanks again.