¥Incorporate data directly into a
theoretical model to predict
some other observable phenomenon
¥Compare the output of the model with
observations, and
adjust model assumptions until agreement is achieved.
¥Advantages: Is the only basis for a physics-based forecasting model
¥Disadvantages: Assumes the physical mechanisms already well-understood; doesnÕt easily
allow for change of
paradigm
¥This approach is more common in Earth
Sciences (e.g. atmospheric
and ocean sciences)