How to Evaluate and Synthesize Literature Data on Physical Properties.
Abstract
The methodology of critical evaluation, correlation, analysis, and synthesis of physical properties data used at the Thermophysical and Electronic Properties Information Analysis Center (TEPIAC) of the Center for Information and Numerical Data Analysis and Synthesis (CINDAS), Purdue University, is described and discussed, and further illustrated with practical examples covering thermal conductivity, thermal diffusivity, electrical resistivity, thermoelectric power, and refractive index of various solid materials. It is demonstrated that data evaluation, correlation, analysis, and synthesis is a very powerful tool that not only can bring order out of conflicting, confusing, and chaotic experimental observations, but also can create new knowledge, which in itself is a major contribution to science and technology. It is shown further that critically evaluated, recommended reference data are generated at a tiny fraction of the cost and time required for producing the original experimental raw data, and that data critique must be considered an integral part of research if research results are to be meaningful and useful. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1980
- Accession Number
- ADA122173
Entities
People
- C. Y. Ho
- Y. S. Touloukian