Multivariate interpolation to incorporate thematic surface data using inverse distance weighting (IDW)

This paper introduces an interpolation routine that explicitly addresses surface variation across thematic polygonal boundaries. The inverse distance weighted (IDW) interpolation method has been expanded to allow users to define the expected degree of surface abruptness along thematic boundaries using a transition matrix. The procedure is demonstrated using as a case study an interpolated surface of nickel geochemistry modified by terrane stratigraphic boundaries.