Curve comparison in wood science: An introductory guide to common cases

Authors

  • Silvana Calvano Department of Agricultural, Forest and Food Science, Universiy of Torino, Italy
  • Francesco Negro Department of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences, University of Torino, Italy
  • Emma Grace Oliver Department of Wood Science and Engineering, Oregon State University, OR, USA
  • Islam Hafez Department of Wood Science and Engineering, Oregon State University, OR, USA
  • Alessandro Portaluri Department of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences, University of Torino, Italy

Abstract

Empirical curves are essential for describing and analyzing phenomena in wood science. Although the theoretical framework is well established, the complexity of handling curves can hinder their proper application, which is likely to be more common in practice than generally assumed. This article aims to support the effective use and comparison of curves in wood science, and it is mainly intended as an accessible guide for approaching curve comparison, from the basic concepts of dependent and independent variables to the most complex of curve fitting and linearization. After a brief introduction and framework, this study addresses various key concepts, including types of curves, independent and dependent variables, linearization, and number of specimens required. These aspects are discussed through a methodological framework that can be useful in common situations. A section on avoiding common pitfalls is included as well. Proper confidence in handling curves is important not only to avoid errors, but also to enable their effective use, which can result in a more accurate description and a deeper understanding of phenomena.

Author Biographies

Silvana Calvano, Department of Agricultural, Forest and Food Science, Universiy of Torino, Italy

PhD student

Department of Agricultural, Forest and Food Science, Universiy of Torino, Italy

Francesco Negro, Department of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences, University of Torino, Italy

Associate professor

Department of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences, University of Torino, Italy

Emma Grace Oliver, Department of Wood Science and Engineering, Oregon State University, OR, USA

Undergraduate student

Department of Wood Science and Engineering, Oregon State University, OR, USA

Islam Hafez, Department of Wood Science and Engineering, Oregon State University, OR, USA

Assistant professor

Department of Wood Science and Engineering, Oregon State University, OR, USA

Alessandro Portaluri, Department of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences, University of Torino, Italy

Full professor

Department of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences, University of Torino, Italy

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Wood and Fiber Science title superimposed over an abstract design evoking a mesh pattern of interconnected wood cells in a gradient of blue, green, and yellow

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Published

2026-11-08

Issue

Vol. 58 No. 4 (2026): Wood and Fiber Science

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Research Contributions

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