What is Observation?
{{AI-notice}} '''Observation''' is a fundamental aspect of [[experiment]]al [[research]], providing valuable insights into the natural world. In scientific terms, observation refers to the systematic and careful examination of phenomena to gather information and generate knowledge.<ref>https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/observation</ref> [[File:Lennuliiklust uurimas.jpg|thumb|Observing the air traffic in [[Estonia]].]] In the realm of scientific experiments, observation involves keenly watching and recording events, [[behavior]]s, or changes in the environment. Researchers employ this method to collect data and draw meaningful conclusions about the world around them. Observations can be qualitative, focusing on qualities such as color, texture, or behavior, or quantitative, involving measurements and numerical data. ==Examples of observation in experimental contexts== ===Biological observations=== Qualitative: A biologist observes the intricate patterns of butterfly wing colors, noting variations and documenting their significance for species identification. Quantitative: Researchers measure the growth rates of plants under different light conditions, recording precise height and leaf counts to analyze the impact of light intensity on plant development.<ref>https://books.google.no/books?id=ANT8VB14oBUC&q=%22scientific+method%22+observation+hypothesis+experiment+conclusion&pg=PA14&redir_esc=y</ref> ===Physics observations=== '''Qualitative:''' A physics student watches the [[oscillation]]s of a pendulum and describes the motion patterns, noting any irregularities or unique behaviors. '''Quantitative:''' Scientists measure the [[acceleration]] due to gravity by carefully timing the fall of objects from a known height, collecting data to calculate precise values.<ref>https://books.google.no/books?id=7feg9MZMPQMC&q=%22scientific+method%22+observation+hypothesis+experiment+conclusion&pg=PA4&redir_esc=y</ref> ===Social science observations=== '''Qualitative:''' [[Sociology|A sociologist]] observes