Computational methods for data evaluation and assimilation Data evaluation and data combination require the use of a wide range of probability theory concepts and tools from deductive statistics mainly concerning frequencies and sample tallies to inductive inference for assimilating non frequency data and a priori knowledge. Computational Methods for Data Evaluation and Assimilation presents interdisciplinary methods for integrating experimental and computational information. This self contained book shows how the methods can be applied in many scientific and engineering areas.After presenting the fundamentals underlying the evaluation of experimental data the book explains how to estimate covariances and confidence intervals from experimental data. It then describes algorithms for both unconstrained and constrained minimization of large scale systems such as time dependent variational data assimilation in weather prediction and similar applications in the geophysical sciences. The book also discusses several basic principles of four dimensional variational assimilation (4D VAR) and highlights specific difficulties in applying 4D VAR to large scale operational numerical weather prediction models Preface This book is addressed to graduate and postgraduate students and researchers in the interdisciplinary methods of data assimilation which refers to the integration of experimental and computational information. Since experiments and corresponding computations are encountered in many fields of scientific and engineering endeavors the concepts presented in this book are illustrated using paradigm examples that range from the geophysical sciences to nuclear physics. In an attempt to keep the book as self contained as possible the mathematical concepts mostly from probability theory and functional analysis needed to follow the material presented in the books five chapters are summarized in the books three appendices. This book was finalized at the University of South Carolina. The authors wish to acknowledge the outstanding professional assistance of Dr. Madalina Corina Badea of the University of South Carolina who has thoroughly reviewed the final version of the book providing very valuable suggestions while improving its readability. Also acknowledged are the services of Dr. Erkan Arslan for his typing the word version of this book into Latex. Last but not least this book would have not have appeared without the continued patience guidance and understanding of Bob Stern (Executive Editor Taylor and Francis Group) whom the authors appreciate immensely