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enquiry

Definition

In science, enquiry is a process of asking questions, gathering evidence, and coming up with explanations. It is a way of learning about the world around us that is based on the scientific method.

The scientific method is a systematic way of solving problems. It involves the following steps:

  • Ask a question: The first step is to ask a question about something you want to know more about.
  • Do background research: Once you have asked your question, you need to do some background research. This involves gathering information from books, articles, and other sources.
  • Form a hypothesis: A hypothesis is a possible explanation for your question. It is an educated guess that you can test.
  • Design an experiment: The next step is to design an experiment to test your hypothesis. An experiment is a controlled test that allows you to collect evidence.
  • Gather evidence: Once you have designed your experiment, you need to gather evidence. This evidence should support or refute your hypothesis.
  • Analyze the evidence: After you have gathered evidence, you need to analyze it. This involves looking for patterns and trends in the data.
  • Come up with a conclusion: The final step is to come up with a conclusion. This conclusion should be based on the evidence, and it should answer your original question.

Enquiry is a valuable tool for scientists. It allows them to learn about the world around them and to develop new theories. It is also a valuable tool for students. It helps them to develop their critical thinking skills and to learn how to find answers to their questions.

How can the word be used?

To enquire about something is to ask questions about it.

enquiry

Different forms of the word

Noun: enquiry, inquiry, investigation.

Adjective: enquiring, inquiringly.

Verb: to enquire, to inquire, to investigate.

Synonyms: question, probe, research.

Antonyms: answer, reply, explanation.

Etymology

The word "enquiry" comes from the Old French word "enquerir," which means "to ask about." The Old French word "enquerir" is made up of the Old French words "en" (in) and "querir" (to seek).

Question

What is an enquiry?

AQA Science Exam Question and Answer

Question:

Discuss the importance of scientific enquiry in the field of science and its role in advancing knowledge and understanding. Explain the steps involved in a scientific enquiry, such as making observations, formulating hypotheses, conducting experiments, and drawing conclusions. Provide examples of scientific enquiries that have led to significant discoveries or breakthroughs in various scientific disciplines.

Answer:

Scientific enquiry is a fundamental aspect of the scientific method and plays a crucial role in advancing knowledge and understanding in the field of science. It involves a systematic approach to investigating natural phenomena and answering questions through empirical evidence and objective observations.

The process of scientific enquiry typically begins with making observations and identifying patterns or trends in the data. Based on these observations, scientists formulate hypotheses, which are testable predictions about the phenomenon in question. Through well-designed experiments and data analysis, scientists gather evidence to support or refute their hypotheses.

Several groundbreaking discoveries have resulted from scientific enquiry. For example, Galileo's observations of celestial bodies led to the understanding of heliocentrism, and Watson and Crick's investigation of DNA structure unlocked the secrets of genetic inheritance.

Scientific enquiry is at the core of scientific progress, driving innovation, and enriching our understanding of the natural world. It fosters critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and evidence-based decision-making, essential in addressing contemporary challenges and making scientific advancements that benefit society.