Explain the concept of scientific method'. How is scientific method used for generating new knowledge? Discuss with an example.
Answers
Scientific method is an approach to seeking knowledge that involves forming and testing a hypothesis. This methodology is used to answer questions in a wide variety of disciplines outside of science, including business. Scientific method provides a logical, systematic way to answer questions and removes subjectivity by requiring each answer to be authenticated with objective evidence that can be reproduced.
How is the scientific method used for generating new knowledge?
The scientific method consists of formulating a hypothesis to solve a theoretical problem and test it. New knowledge emerges when a system of hypothesis (or a theoretical system) passes through the rigorous tests and is considered temporarily true. One example is in Physics, Einstein’s theory solved many problems that Newtonian system was deficient. Some hypothesis within Newtonian system were refuted by experiments, while some hypothesis of Einstein’s theory were corroborated. As mentioned above, Einstein’s theory was explaining some phenomena that Newtonian was unable to, like gravity itself. Newton showed mathematically how the forces of attraction between bodies of different masses work, but couldn’t explain why there is this force, thus, he couldn’t explain the cause of gravity. Einstein’s theory filled this gap by changing the perspective of analysis of the phenomena, transforming space and time into a single fabric that bends with mass. So this is how scientific method generates new knowledge and goes beyond previous theories.
Answer:
Scientific method in science is the systematic observation, measurement, experimentation, formulation, testing, and modification of hypotheses.
Explanation:
The above definition is simply the process of building or coming up with new knowledge.
Through observation, measurement, experimentation formulation and importantly coming up with hypothesis which later develops into a theory and hence new knowledge.
For instance by observing a maize seed having one cotyledon, we develop knowledge that it is a monocot ant predict its growth.