Abstract

This chapter describes a structure for climate model verification and validation. The construction of models from components and subcomponents is discussed, and the construction is related to verification and validation. In addition to quantitative measuresQuantitative measures of mean, bias, and variability, it is argued that physical consistencyPhysical consistency must be informed by correlative behavior that is related to underlying physical theory. The more qualitative attributes of validation are discussed. The consideration of these issues leads to the need for deliberative, expert evaluation as a part of the validation process. The narrative maintains a need for a written validation planValidation plan that describes the validation criteria and metrics and establishes the protocols for the essential deliberations. The validation plan, also, sets the foundations for independence, transparencyTransparency, and objectivity. These values support both scientific methodology and integrity in the public forum.