Interpolation

What Does Interpolation Mean?

Interpolation is the estimation of a value or set of values based on their context. Linear interpolation, a very simple form of interpolation, is basically the rendering of a straight line between two or more points. Interpolation is useful for filling in missing data, such as in upscaling images or creating statistical models.

Advertisements

Techopedia Explains Interpolation

Over the years, interpolation has been implemented in many different technologies, including telegraph transmission and digital imaging. Computer-aided design commonly employs spline interpolation in order to render curves that appear organic and are relatively simple to manipulate. Audio interpolation uses mathematical functions to fill in audio data in order to improve sound quality. Some cameras, in addition to optical zoom (which depends on physical lens functions), also feature digital zoom that essentially upscales images through interpolation.

Advertisements

Related Terms

Latest Computer Science Terms

Related Reading

Margaret Rouse

Margaret Rouse is an award-winning technical writer and teacher known for her ability to explain complex technical subjects to a non-technical, business audience. Over the past twenty years her explanations have appeared on TechTarget websites and she's been cited as an authority in articles by the New York Times, Time Magazine, USA Today, ZDNet, PC Magazine and Discovery Magazine.Margaret's idea of a fun day is helping IT and business professionals learn to speak each other’s highly specialized languages. If you have a suggestion for a new definition or how to improve a technical explanation, please email Margaret or contact her…