Investigation vs. Experiment — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Fiza Rafique — Updated on May 1, 2024
An investigation is a detailed inquiry or systematic examination, often to discover facts or gather information, while an experiment is a controlled procedure to test a hypothesis or observe phenomena under specific conditions.
Difference Between Investigation and Experiment
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Investigations involve a methodical approach to exploring a specific subject or problem to uncover the truth or new information. Experiments, on the other hand, involve conducting controlled tests where variables are manipulated to observe effects and validate hypotheses.
In an investigation, the focus is often on gathering data from various sources, which may include physical evidence, documents, and interviews. In contrast, experiments are typically structured around a scientific method, requiring the creation of a controlled environment where variables can be isolated and manipulated.
Investigators aim to answer broad questions, resolve issues, or find out facts, often in fields like law, journalism, or academia. Conversely, experiments are designed to test specific theories or hypotheses, primarily within scientific disciplines.
The outcomes of investigations can lead to conclusions or recommendations based on evidence gathered and analyzed during the process. Experimental results, however, are expected to produce measurable and observable data that can either support or refute a scientific hypothesis.
An investigation might not follow a predetermined path and can evolve based on findings, leading to new lines of inquiry. Experiments, however, are carefully planned to ensure consistency, repeatability, and the ability to precisely measure impacts of variables on the outcome.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Systematic inquiry to discover facts
Controlled test to study effects and validate ideas
Purpose
Discover information, solve mysteries
Test hypotheses, observe phenomena
Methodology
Diverse, including qualitative and quantitative analysis
Controlled, with variable manipulation
Environment
Can vary widely, often uncontrolled
Highly controlled settings
Result Type
Conclusions based on gathered evidence
Data supporting or refuting hypotheses
Compare with Definitions
Investigation
Utilizes both direct and indirect sources of information.
He used witness testimonies during the investigation.
Experiment
Results are typically quantifiable.
The experiment provided numerical data on enzyme efficiency.
Investigation
Systematic examination to uncover the truth.
The police launched an investigation into the theft.
Experiment
A procedure to test a theory under controlled conditions.
They conducted an experiment to see if light affects plant growth.
Investigation
Often involves collecting various forms of evidence.
Her investigation required sorting through numerous documents.
Experiment
Seeks to produce repeatable results.
His experiment's success depended on consistent conditions.
Investigation
Results can lead to further inquiries.
Initial findings prompted a deeper investigation.
Experiment
Often uses variables to test reactions.
The experiment involved altering temperatures to observe chemical reactions.
Investigation
Can be open-ended and exploratory.
Journalists often engage in investigations to uncover stories.
Experiment
Utilizes control groups and experimental groups.
The experiment's control group received no treatment.
Investigation
The action of investigating something or someone; formal or systematic examination or research
He is under investigation for receiving illicit funds
Experiment
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.
Investigation
The act or process of investigating
A politician under investigation.
Experiment
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.
Investigation
A careful examination or search in order to discover facts or gain information.
Experiment
The process of conducting such a test; experimentation.
Investigation
The act of investigating; the process of inquiring into or following up; research, especially patient or thorough inquiry or examination
The investigation into the crime has led to various leads as well as plenty of dead ends.
Despite thorough investigation, the perpetrator of the attacks remains unknown.
Carry out an investigation
The matter is awaiting investigation
The case is still under investigation.
Experiment
An innovative act or procedure
"Democracy is only an experiment in government" (William Ralph Inge).
Investigation
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.
Experiment
The result of experimentation
"We are not [nature's] only experiment" (R. Buckminster Fuller).
Investigation
An inquiry into unfamiliar or questionable activities;
There was a congressional probe into the scandal
Experiment
To conduct an experiment.
Investigation
The work of inquiring into something thoroughly and systematically
Experiment
To try something new, especially in order to gain experience
Experiment with new methods of teaching.
Experiment
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.
Conduct an experiment
Carry out some experiments
Perform a scientific experiment
Experiment
(obsolete) Experience, practical familiarity with something.
Experiment
(intransitive) To conduct an experiment.
We're going to experiment on rats.
Experiment
To experience; to feel; to perceive; to detect.
Experiment
To test or ascertain by experiment; to try out; to make an experiment on.
Experiment
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.
A political experiment can not be made in a laboratory, nor determined in a few hours.
Experiment
Experience.
Adam, by sad experiment I knowHow little weight my words with thee can find.
Experiment
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.
Experiment
To try; to know, perceive, or prove, by trial or experience.
Experiment
The act of conducting a controlled test or investigation
Experiment
The testing of an idea;
It was an experiment in living
Not all experimentation is done in laboratories
Experiment
A venture at something new or different;
As an experiment he decided to grow a beard
Experiment
To conduct a test or investigation;
We are experimenting with the new drug in order to fight this disease
Common Curiosities
What is an investigation?
An investigation is a detailed and careful examination to discover facts or information.
What are typical outcomes of experiments?
Experiments typically produce data that can validate or refute a hypothesis based on observable and measurable evidence.
Can an investigation include experiments?
Yes, investigations can include experiments as part of the data collection process to test specific aspects within a broader inquiry.
How do investigations and experiments differ in purpose?
Investigations aim to uncover detailed information and resolve issues, whereas experiments aim to test specific hypotheses and observe effects.
What defines the methodology of an experiment?
Experiments are defined by their controlled environments and the manipulation of variables to isolate effects on the subjects studied.
What is an experiment?
An experiment is a scientific procedure undertaken to make a discovery, test a hypothesis, or demonstrate a known fact.
Is an investigation confined to scientific fields?
No, investigations are common in many fields including law enforcement, journalism, and academia.
What skills are important for conducting investigations?
Critical thinking, attention to detail, and analytical skills are crucial for effective investigations.
Can the results of an experiment influence an investigation?
Yes, experimental results can provide essential data that influences the direction or outcomes of an investigation.
What skills are essential for conducting experiments?
Scientific reasoning, precision in measurement, and ability to control and manipulate variables are key for successful experiments.
How are results from investigations and experiments utilized?
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.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
