What is an experiment?

An experiment is fundamentally defined as a scientific procedure designed specifically to test a hypothesis. This means that in an experiment, researchers will manipulate one or more variables and observe the effects of these changes on a particular outcome. The aim of this process is to gather evidence that either supports or refutes the initial hypothesis, forming a crucial part of the scientific method.

Conducting experiments allows scientists to understand cause-and-effect relationships through controlled testing, leading to more reliable and valid results. The structured approach ensures that variables are monitored, and results can be replicated and analyzed, which is essential in confirming findings and building scientific knowledge.

In contrast to this definition, significant observations without testing and processes of collecting data lack the active testing element inherent to experiments. While experimentation combines observation and data collection, its primary focus is on testing hypotheses under controlled conditions.