What is the mathematical formula used in software to perform data analysis?

The correct choice pertains to the concept of an algorithm, which is essentially a predefined set of rules or steps designed to solve a problem or perform a task, particularly in the realm of data analysis. In software development, algorithms are crucial because they provide the method through which data is processed and analyzed. This includes operations like sorting, searching, and performing statistical analyses.

In data analysis, algorithms can take many forms, such as regression analysis, clustering, or classification algorithms. Each of these serves a different purpose but fundamentally relies on the underlying principles of the algorithm for data manipulation and decision-making.

The other options in the list do not represent a distinct mathematical formula in software for data analysis. Estimation analysis is a general procedure for estimating values but isn’t a formula itself; outliers refer to data points that deviate significantly from the rest of the dataset, which are often identified through statistical analysis but do not constitute a mathematical formula; and cubic analysis isn't a standard term in data analysis, though cubic functions might be used under certain conditions. Therefore, the definitive and accurate choice reflecting the computational methodologies employed in data analysis is indeed an algorithm.