Observational and modeled data form the building blocks for scientific study of the complex Earth system
Earth system science is focused on the interactions between several disciplines that determine the state and evolution of our planet. (See the
Scientific Framework section of the Design Guide). Earth system scientists consider Earth as a dynamic entity which changes constantly under natural influences, and more recently under anthropogenic influences as well. The scientific study of such a complex system is founded on basic observational data and model output.
The “
Using Data Portal” defines data as “the foundation upon which we build scientific arguments, thus the term is applied to a wide variety of observations and results in different contexts. Data is recognized or defined by its role in a scientific investigation or experiment (generating hypotheses, testing, describing conditions) and by its use supporting scientific explanations”.
Information is the result of processing, manipulating and organizing data in a way that adds to the knowledge of the person receiving it. (Source:
Oracle glossary).
To be of use data needs to be transformed into information. The human brain is an excellent tool to process the data and derive meaningful information from it. In the context of Earth System Science several less sophisticated tools are available to process and analyze data, and present the derived information in visually effective ways.
Models are more refined tools that are driven by data. Models simplify and simulate different parts of the Earth system, or in the case of very large modeling efforts, try to simulate the entire Earth system (eg.
Community Climate System Model, GFDL's
Global Atmospheric Model,
Paleoclimate Modelling Intercomparison Project). Based on recorded observations and scientifically sound logics, models can be used to explore how the Earth system operates under different forcings, why the Earth system has changed over time and to predict future change in the Earth system.
Therefore, data, tools, and models together are fundamental for examining the complex Earth system and shaping our understanding.
REFERENCE: Quoted from
Using Data In Undergraduate Science Classrooms
