Atmospheric Satellite Observations

Chapter 1

Introduction to data assimilation

Abstract

This chapter provides a general introduction to data assimilation by answering questions such as what is data assimilation, why is data assimilation needed, and what does data assimilation do. Definitions of and relationships among atmospheric thermodynamic variables are then given, along with various forms of the equation of state and the first law of thermodynamics. Finally, the physical laws that govern the atmosphere and its motion are provided, including the fundamental principles of conservation of momentum, mass, energy, and water vapor. When formulated mathematically, these physical laws form a set of atmospheric governing equations for numerical weather prediction.

Keywords

Data assimilation; ...