Least Squares Data Fitting
A standard mathematical regression technique for determining the best-fitting curve or line to a set of data points by minimizing the sum of squared residual deviations.
Governing formula
Minimizing S = ∑_(i=1)^(N) (y_i - f(x_i, β))²
SI unit
Statistical Regression Method
In depth
Pioneered by Carl Friedrich Gauss and Adrien-Marie Legendre. Provides optimal, unbiased parameter estimates when measurement errors are normally distributed.
Examples in the real world
Linear regression fitting experimental physics lab data to determine physical constants.