Data Variables
For climate modelling, we need to store multidimensional scientific data (variables) such as temperature, humidity, pressure, wind speed and direction.
Variables can be stored in multidimensional data formats such as NetCDF as separate dimensions where each dimension can have a name and length.
Common variables
Variables used in climate modelling can differ in terms of naming conventions, units, etc. While this may be for historical reasons, the use of common variables is key not only for ease and compatibilty when working with the data, but also to unite the climate modelling community. Hence, projects will follow or relate to CF conventions. These projects have current widely used lists.
CMIP6 variables
You can search the extensive list of Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 6 (CMIP6) variables by either the MIP variable name or associated CF standard name.
ERA5 variables
ERA5 is the fifth generation European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) atmospheric reanalysis of the global climate, which spans a period from January 1940 to present. ERA5 provides hourly estimates of a significant number of atmospheric, land and oceanic climate variables.
A full list of ERA5 parameters is available on the ECMWF database. It covers both the ERA5 parameter listings as well as the ERA5-LAND parameter listings.