Spline (mathematics)

In the mathematical subfield of numerical analysis a spline is a special function defined piecewise by polynomials.

Related Topics:
Mathematical - Numerical analysis - Piecewise - Polynomial

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In interpolating problems, spline interpolation is often preferred to polynomial interpolation because it yields similar results, even when using low degree polynomials, while avoiding Runge's phenomenon for higher degrees.

Related Topics:
Interpolating - Spline interpolation - Polynomial interpolation - Runge's phenomenon

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In the computer science subfields of computer-aided design and computer graphics the term spline more frequently refers to a piecewise parametric polynomial curve. Splines are a popular representations for curves in these subfields

Related Topics:
Computer science - Computer-aided design - Computer graphics - Curve

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because of the simplicity of their construction, their ease and accuracy of evaluation, and their capacity to approximate complex shapes through curve fitting and interactive curve design.

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The term spline comes from the flexible spline devices used by shipbuilders and draftsmen to draw smooth shapes.

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