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experiment

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Definition

An experiment is a controlled test that is conducted to test a hypothesis. A hypothesis is a statement that predicts the outcome of an experiment.

The purpose of an experiment is to gather data that can be used to support or refute a hypothesis. Experiments are conducted in a controlled environment, which means that all of the variables are kept constant except for the one that is being tested. This allows the scientist to isolate the effects of the variable being tested.

There are many different types of experiments, but they all follow the same basic steps:

  • State the hypothesis. The hypothesis is a prediction of what will happen in the experiment.
  • Design the experiment. This includes deciding what variables will be controlled, what data will be collected, and how the data will be analyzed.
  • Conduct the experiment. This involves following the procedures that were laid out in the design of the experiment.
  • Analyse the data. This involves looking at the data and seeing if it supports the hypothesis.
  • Draw conclusions. This involves deciding whether or not the hypothesis was supported by the data.

Experiments are an important part of the scientific method. They allow scientists to test their hypotheses and gather data that can be used to support or refute their theories.

How can the word be used?

The scientist conducted an experiment to test the effects of a new drug.

experiment

Different forms of the word

Noun: experiment, trial, test.

Adjective: experimental, experimentalist.

Verb: to experiment, to try out.

Synonyms: trial, test, research.

Etymology

The word "experiment" comes from the Latin word experimentum, which means "trial, experience." It was first used in English in the 14th century, and it is still used today to refer to a test or trial that is conducted to gather data or to prove or disprove a hypothesis.

Question

What is an experiment?

AQA Science Exam Question and Answer

Question:

Design an experiment to investigate the effect of different light colours on plant growth. Clearly outline the variables, controls, and measurements you would use, and explain the importance of a control group in this experiment.

Answer:

Experiment: The Effect of Different Light Colours on Plant Growth.

Variables:

  • Independent Variable: Light colours (e.g., red, blue, green, and white).
  • Dependent Variable: Plant growth (measured by height or number of leaves).

Controls:

  • Plant species and age: Use the same type and age of plants to ensure consistency.
  • Soil type and quality: Use identical soil for all plants to eliminate soil-related growth variations.
  • Watering schedule: Water all plants equally to maintain consistent moisture levels.
  • Temperature: Keep the plants in the same environmental conditions to avoid temperature-related effects.
  • Light intensity and duration: Ensure equal light exposure and duration for all plants.

Measurements:

  • Regularly measure the height of each plant and count the number of leaves to track growth progress.

Importance of a Control Group:

  • The control group in this experiment would be a set of plants exposed to natural sunlight, providing a baseline for comparison. By maintaining the control group under standard light conditions, any differences in plant growth among the experimental groups (exposed to different light colours) can be attributed to the specific light colour's effect. Without a control group, it would be challenging to draw meaningful conclusions and identify the actual impact of light colours on plant growth. The control group acts as a reference point, ensuring the reliability and validity of the experiment's results.