Why Use Nonlinear Polynomials for Linearization?

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the use of nonlinear polynomials and splines for linearization techniques, particularly in the context of interpolating data from nonlinear sensors. Participants explore the definitions and distinctions between various methods of linearization, including polynomial and spline interpolation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Mike questions the use of polynomials of degree greater than one for linearization, seeking clarification on how they fit into linearization techniques.
  • Some participants request examples of cubic spline or polynomial interpolation being classified as linear interpolation.
  • Mike mentions a list from a Master thesis that includes piecewise polynomial or spline interpolation as linearization techniques, raising questions about the role of higher-order polynomials.
  • There is a distinction made between polynomial approximation and spline interpolation, with one participant noting that splines may have discontinuities in derivatives at fitting points, while polynomials generally have continuous derivatives.
  • Mike expresses confusion about the term "linearization" and its potential equivalence to interpolation in certain contexts.
  • Another participant highlights the ambiguity in mathematical terminology, suggesting that "linearization" can have multiple meanings depending on context.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the definitions and applications of linearization techniques. Multiple competing views and uncertainties remain regarding the relationship between linearization, interpolation, and the use of polynomials and splines.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the discussion regarding the definitions of linearization and interpolation, as well as the specific contexts in which these terms are applied. Some assumptions about the nature of the data and the techniques used remain unresolved.

MikeSv
Messages
34
Reaction score
0
Hi everyone.

I started to look at different linearization techniques like:

-linear interpolation
- spline interpolation
- curve fitting...

Now Iam wondering (and I guess its very stupid) : As polynomials with a degree > 1 are not linear, why can I use them for linearization?

With the method of piecewise linear interpolation its clear. You connect two datapoints with a linear function.

But what about quadratic and cubic splines which are not linear?

Thanks in advance for any help,

Kind regards,

Mike
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Hi,

Can you give an example where someone claims an interpolation by means of a cubic spline or a polynomial is a linear interpolation ?
 
Hi and thanks for your reply.

Iam trying to learn more about how to linearize outputs of a nonlinear sensor and I found a list in a Master thesis on the web which desribes different techniques for linearization.
The list says "Piecewise polynomial or spline interpolation"...

Or is linearization of nonlinear sensors is done with linear polynomials only?

Regards,

Mike
 
Hi again.

I found a section in a scientific paper which mention techniques like:
- look up table
- polygonal approximation
- polynomial approximation
- cubic spline interpolation

So I guess that answers one part of my question. Polynomials of higher order can be used?

But then another question came up... Whats the difference between plynomial approximation and spline interpolation?

Thanks again,

Mike
 
MikeSv said:
I found a list in a Master thesis on the web which desribes different techniques for linearization.
MikeSv said:
I found a section in a scientific paper
I found somewhere ... tell me what is meant, is not an acceptable quotation. So the demand
BvU said:
Can you give an example where someone claims an interpolation by means of a cubic spline or a polynomial is a linear interpolation ?
is still valid.

E.g. polynomials could be the elements (points) of the phase space and not the object of the linearization process. In this case, we might talk about a linearization between polynomials of any degree by linear polynomials of polynomials. A bit constructed, I admit, but it shows you the difficulties we face, if you say things like "I have read / found / heard ... somewhere / on the web / in an article".
 
Hi and thanks for your reply!

Please take into consideration that I have just started with the topic and Iam just confused what is meant by "linearization" of data... Maybe its the same as interpolation in that context?

Regards,

Mike
 
MikeSv said:
Maybe its the same as interpolation in that context?

What context? You haven't revealed the title of the scientific paper or quoted an abstract from it.

In mathematics, some nouns like "linearization" can be used with a variety of meanings. In spite of the fact that mathematics frowns on ambiguous terminology, mathematics is cultural phenomenon subject to the habits of human beings. So it frowns on ambiguous terminology and also uses it.
 
Hi again.

As I mentioned earlier I would like to take raw data of a non linear sensor (i.e. a thermocouple) and learn how to linearize these.
But Iam not sure which techniques are used for that.

Regards,

Mike
 
  • #10
Difference between spline and polynomial approximation is that that to some order the splines are only piecewise continuous in derivatives usually some order is discontinuous at the fitting points while a polynomial has continuous derivatives of all orders generally.
 
  • #11
In some Statistical treatments a model or expression are considered linear if they are linear in the coefficients. Maybe this is the case with your book
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 22 ·
Replies
22
Views
4K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 21 ·
Replies
21
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K