USE OF RATIONAL FUNCTIONS FOR REPRESENTING DATA

The relative merits of polynomials and rational functions for the representation of data are illustrated by means of various fits to typical sets of physical data by using these two types of parameterization. In many situations rational functions provide superior fits with the same number of adjustable parameters (or fits with fewer parameters for the same degree of precision), greater stability of extrapolation to points outside the fitted range, and greater versatility in approximating diverse functional forms, including those showing singularities. A useful algorithm for the computation of rational fits is briefly discussed. © 1979, American Chemical Society. All rights reserved.