The precision of results from nonlinear regression analysis of data following a three-parameter one-exponential equation.
Simulated experimental data were generated from error-free data following the equation y = A - Be-kt where A, B, and k are constants and were analyzed by iterative nonlinear regression using one of two basic published computer programs. The effect of the simulated experimental error in y on the precision of the computed constants A, B, and k was evaluated. The errors were either independent of y (simple errors) or proportional to y (relative errors) and outliers were sometimes introduced. Other factors investigated were the number of data points per regression, the range of values of y, and the effect of weighting the data. The results show that the errors in the computed constants, and particularly the rate constant k, may be considerably magnified with respect to the errors in the experimental data. The quantitative relationships that are presented are useful aids in the design of biochemical experiments in which the above equation is applicable.
D003201:Computers; D003625:Data Collection; D008433:Mathematics; D012044:Regression Analysis