VARIANCE AS A FUNCTION OF SAMPLE SUPPORT SIZE

The effect of sample support size on variance is examined and evaluated. Results based on variograms and geostatistics are compared to the classical relationship developed by H. F. Smith in 1938; that is, that the variance is reduced from V1 to V1/nb as the support area increases from I to n plots for uniformity trials. The exponent b is between zero and one. Theoretical results are based on use of auxiliary functions and account for the size and shape of the sample support and the overall field geometry. Results are given in terms of approximations by rational functions for ease of calculation. Experimental results for uniformity trials, infiltration measurements, and spectral data from satellites are compared to theoretical and empirical results. Applications include not only uniformity trials, but also measurement theory. © 1990 International Association for Mathematical Geology.