1.1 Scope
This course surveys the methodology and tools of experimental research in atmospheric science. This volume, Part 1, treats topics that are general and applicable to most experimental science: how to interpret measurements, test hypotheses, and design experiments. The focus is on the analysis of experimental data, with lesser attention to the design of experiments. Analysis techniques will be treated first, and design of experiments toward the end of the text, because experimental design must take into account the possible ways in which the data can be used.
Most of this material in Part 1 is presented in a format resembling a user's handbook, with corresponding weaknesses in the mathematical justifications and foundations. Some references to the extensive literature on these subjects are included to fill these gaps, but the target audience is those who will use these methods in experimental research so their practical needs are emphasized. This choice has led to a primary emphasis on techniques and methods, in many cases with only enough formal justification to provide a sense of the validity and applicability of the methods described.
