the person doing the investigation recording all conditions before, during and
after the investigation.
Using a balance to measure mass might be part of a scientific investigation, but by itself and under ordinary circumstances it does not amount to a scientific investigation. If you are on a different planet or on a moon, or if you were in the weightlessness of space, then doing this (or trying to do it) might be considered a kind of investigation.
Statistically the results will not be scientifically valid if the sample size is too small.
The scientific method requires reproducibility. I would not think you could skip or rearrange any steps. You need to do the same things in the same order to arrive at the same resolution for the scientific method to be properly applied.
The history of paranormal investigation, so far, is dominated by pseudo-science and fraud. If we wanted to be kinder, we might describe it as fringe science.
Some steps of the scientific method may be skipped or reordered due to the evolving nature of research, where new findings can prompt scientists to modify their approaches. For instance, if initial observations lead to unexpected results, researchers might formulate new hypotheses before conducting further experiments. Additionally, practical constraints like time and resources may necessitate adjustments in the investigation process. Ultimately, the flexibility in the scientific method allows for adaptability and responsiveness to new insights and challenges.
An example of an experimental scientific investigation is a study examining the effect of different fertilizers on plant growth. Researchers might set up multiple groups of plants, each receiving a different type of fertilizer, while keeping one group without fertilizer as a control. They would measure the growth of the plants over a set period, collecting data on height, leaf number, and overall health to determine which fertilizer is most effective. This investigation allows for controlled manipulation of variables to establish cause-and-effect relationships.
horseplay
CSI investigation
The term that describes an educated guess about what the answer to a question might be is a "hypothesis." In scientific research, a hypothesis is formulated based on existing knowledge and observations, and it serves as a basis for further investigation and experimentation. It is typically testable and can be supported or refuted through data collection and analysis.
there might not be enough proof
Multiple approaches to a scientific investigation can yield the same results by applying different methodologies or perspectives to explore a question or hypothesis. For example, in studying the effects of a new drug, researchers might use clinical trials, observational studies, and laboratory experiments. Each method can provide unique insights and data, but when they converge on similar conclusions about the drug's efficacy, it strengthens the overall validity of the findings. This multifaceted approach enhances the robustness of scientific conclusions.
Many things can hinder a journalist's investigation. People might not be willing to talk. Laws might protect the privacy of an individual. Other sources the journalist is trying to use might have false information. It is up to the journalist to sift through what is fiction and find the truth.