On the exponent in the "generalized" matching equation
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 7, 2026

Shaping the Amplitude and Phase of Laser Beams by Using a Phase-only Spatial Light Modulator
Published on: January 28, 2019
Abstract:
A power function equation between ratios of behavior and ratios of reinforcement rates has been called a generalized form of Herrnstein's (1961) matching law, even without a formal relationship having been shown between the two equations. The present work uses a functional relationship to prove that when ratios of reinforcement are not equivalent to ratios of behavior, and the transform leading to this inequality is consistent for every pair of reinforcement rates, the result is a power function relationship between response and reinforcement ratios. The label "generalized matching equation" for the power function equation is thus validated formally.
Related Concept Videos
Interpreting ¹H NMR Signal Splitting: The (n + 1) Rule
Exponents
Introduction to Exponential Functions
Extraction: Partition and Distribution Coefficients
For extracting a solute from an aqueous phase into an organic...
Difference Equation Solution using z-Transform
The z-transform facilitates handling delayed signals by shifting the signal in the z-domain, which corresponds to delaying the signal in the time domain, and advancing signals by similarly shifting in the...
Exponential and Sinusoidal Signals