Answered

Science and Engineering Practices
1. What is the difference between an observation and an inference?



Answer :

Observation and inference are both important aspects of the scientific process. Here's the difference between them:

1. Observation: An observation is something that you detect using your senses. It is a direct fact or detail about something that can be measured or seen. Observations are objective and do not involve making assumptions or interpretations. For example, seeing that the grass is green is an observation.

2. Inference: An inference, on the other hand, is a logical conclusion or explanation based on observations. It involves interpreting or explaining what you have observed. Inferences go beyond what is directly observed and may involve making educated guesses or hypotheses. For instance, if you observe dark clouds in the sky, you might infer that it is going to rain.

In summary, observations are direct facts or details that can be perceived with the senses, while inferences are logical conclusions or explanations drawn from observations. Both play crucial roles in the scientific process, with observations forming the foundation on which inferences are built.