Difference between observation and experiment.

Scientific progress cannot be stopped, and methods of studying the environment have always improved and become more sophisticated. Observations and experiments have been known for centuries, they are not only compared, but also identified. At the same time, there is a colossal difference between these concepts, which reflects the dynamics of the development of scientific thought.

Definitions

Observations - this is a study in which a scientist conducts visual control of an object, allowing events to develop naturally and noting any changes. The result of the work is recorded on the information carrier for further analysis. Observations can be carried out without equipment, as well as with the use of special equipment.

Experiments are studies in which objects are placed in an artificially created or natural environment, and the scientist enters into active interaction with the studied subject. In the process of experiments, the hypothesis built on the basis of the available theoretical data is confirmed or refuted.

Comparison

Thus, observations do not imply active interaction with the object. The researcher distances himself from them, recording the data obtained. This is the main goal - the collection of information, which will then be analyzed. During the experiment, the scientist enters into active interaction with the object. The purpose of this action is to test a hypothesis by confirming it an unlimited number of times.

Experience always has a plan, observations do not. To conduct an experiment, the researcher needs to recreate certain conditions. Observation is carried out in a natural environment, because interference in the life of the objects under study will mean the beginning of the experiment. Both the first and the second research methods are extremely useful for science, they do not contradict, but mutually complement each other.

Conclusions TheDifference.ru

  1. Influence on the object. Observations do not imply active interaction with the object under study, while experiments are based on such interference.
  2. Use of special equipment. Research can be carried out with the naked eye; for the experiment, instruments and other scientific and technical means are always required.
  3. Having a plan. Observation is carried out in the same way, experiment - according to a previously worked out scenario.
  4. Wednesday. Observation takes place in a natural environment, experience - in an artificial one.
  5. Purpose. Observations are carried out for the sake of collecting information for subsequent analysis, experiments - to confirm the hypothesis.
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