Investigation vs. Experiment — What's the Difference?

Utilizes both direct and indirect sources of information.

Results are typically quantifiable.

Systematic examination to uncover the truth.

A procedure to test a theory under controlled conditions.

Often involves collecting various forms of evidence.

Seeks to produce repeatable results.

Results can lead to further inquiries.

Often uses variables to test reactions.

Can be open-ended and exploratory.

Utilizes control groups and experimental groups.

The action of investigating something or someone; formal or systematic examination or research

An experiment is a procedure carried out to support or refute a hypothesis. Experiments provide insight into cause-and-effect by demonstrating what outcome occurs when a particular factor is manipulated.

The act or process of investigating

A test under controlled conditions that is made to demonstrate a known truth, examine the validity of a hypothesis, or determine the efficacy of something previously untried.

A careful examination or search in order to discover facts or gain information.

The process of conducting such a test; experimentation.

The act of investigating; the process of inquiring into or following up; research, especially patient or thorough inquiry or examination

An innovative act or procedure

The act of investigating; the process of inquiring into or following up; research; study; inquiry, esp. patient or thorough inquiry or examination; as, the investigations of the philosopher and the mathematician; the investigations of the judge, the moralist.

The result of experimentation

An inquiry into unfamiliar or questionable activities;

To conduct an experiment.

The work of inquiring into something thoroughly and systematically

To try something new, especially in order to gain experience

A test under controlled conditions made to either demonstrate a known truth, examine the validity of a hypothesis, or determine the efficacy or likelihood of something previously untried.

(obsolete) Experience, practical familiarity with something.

(intransitive) To conduct an experiment.

To experience; to feel; to perceive; to detect.

To test or ascertain by experiment; to try out; to make an experiment on.

A trial or special observation, made to confirm or disprove something uncertain; esp., one under controlled conditions determined by the experimenter; an act or operation undertaken in order to discover some unknown principle or effect, or to test, establish, or illustrate some hypothesis, theory, or known truth; practical test; proof.

Experience.

To make experiment; to operate by test or trial; - often with on, upon, or in, referring to the subject of an experiment; with, referring to the instrument; and by, referring to the means; as, to experiment upon electricity; he experimented in plowing with ponies, or by steam power.

To try; to know, perceive, or prove, by trial or experience.

The act of conducting a controlled test or investigation

The testing of an idea;

A venture at something new or different;

To conduct a test or investigation;

An investigation is a detailed and careful examination to discover facts or information.

Experiments typically produce data that can validate or refute a hypothesis based on observable and measurable evidence.

Yes, investigations can include experiments as part of the data collection process to test specific aspects within a broader inquiry.

Investigations aim to uncover detailed information and resolve issues, whereas experiments aim to test specific hypotheses and observe effects.

Experiments are defined by their controlled environments and the manipulation of variables to isolate effects on the subjects studied.

An experiment is a scientific procedure undertaken to make a discovery, test a hypothesis, or demonstrate a known fact.

No, investigations are common in many fields including law enforcement, journalism, and academia.

Critical thinking, attention to detail, and analytical skills are crucial for effective investigations.

Yes, experimental results can provide essential data that influences the direction or outcomes of an investigation.

Scientific reasoning, precision in measurement, and ability to control and manipulate variables are key for successful experiments.

Investigation results are used to inform, solve problems, or suggest further inquiries. Experiment results contribute to scientific knowledge and may lead to technological advancements or new practices.