Labels:text | screenshot | font | document OCR: Science is based upon observation. However, observation alone is not science. Scientists generally state a problem, which then guides them in their observations. But, without observation people are generally not aware of a problem. This then raises a question: Which comes first, the observation or the problem? Curiosity awakens a need for observation. Observation will usually raise specific questions in the mind of a scientist. To satisfy his curiosity he begins to make observations. Then, he formulates a specific statement that can be tested. This statement is called a hypothesis. It is the starting point for an experiment. By experimenting, the scientist tries to show or prove that the hypothesis is true or false. He must use good imagination to create an experiment that fits the problem. The experiment must provide valid information or data. The data gathered during the experiment are observations. Observations can be made directly or indirectly. For indirect observation, instruments are often used. Some instruments used by scientists are quite simple; others are very complex. To complete his experiment, the scientist must state his observations in numerical form. This means that he has to make measurements. With the results from these he can make more exact comparisons or descriptions to prove his hypothesis. The results of a scientific experiment based on a valid hypothesis can often lead to a better understanding of the world and the universe.
(.png)
