Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
The scientific method is a systematic approach to inquiry that involves observing, hypothesizing, experimenting, and analyzing results to draw conclusions. It is foundational in physics for developing theories and understanding natural phenomena.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
The steps of the scientific method include observation, hypothesis formation, experimentation, analysis, and conclusion.
A hypothesis must be testable and falsifiable.
Experiments should be repeatable to confirm results and increase reliability.
Data analysis often involves statistical methods to interpret experimental results.
The scientific method helps eliminate biases by relying on empirical evidence.
Review Questions
Related terms
Hypothesis: A proposed explanation based on limited evidence as a starting point for further investigation.
Experiment: A procedure carried out under controlled conditions to discover an unknown effect or law, to test or establish a hypothesis, or to illustrate a known law.
Empirical Evidence: Information acquired by observation or experimentation that is used as a basis for forming conclusions.