A Scientific Approach to Problem Solving

Inside a drop of lake water we find water molecules, some dissolved substances, and tiny algae cells. 

Think about the water in the lake. On the surface it has beauty and colors, and it gently laps the shore of the lake. What is the microscopic nature of water It is composed of tiny molecules represented as 

In this case H represents a hydrogen atom and O an ojygen atom. The water molecule is represented by H2O since it is made up of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom. 

One of the most common and important things we do every day is to solve problems. For example, 

We all face these kinds of problems and decisions. A logical approach can be useful for solving daily problems  

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Using a scientific approach to problem solving is worthwhile. It helps in all parts of your life whether you plan to be a scientist, doctor, businessperson, or writer. 

Most of the applications of artificial intelligence in chemistry so far have not involved numerical computation as a primary goal. Yet there are aspects of the AI approach to problem-solving which have relevance to computation. In scientific computation, one could view the knowledge base as the set of equations, input variable values, and unit conversions relevant to the problem, and the inference engine the numerical method used to solve the equations. This paper describes such a software system,... 

In what ways is using a scientific approach to solving a problem similar to approaches you have used in solving problems in everyday life In what ways is it different ... 

Apply a scientific approach to solving this problem. Label each of your steps appropriately. 

We have described a very serious problem with life-or-death implications. What should David do next Overlooking for a moment the obvious response of calling the couple s doctor immediately to discuss the possibility of lead poisoning, could David solve the problem by scientific thinking Let s use the three steps of the scientific approach to attack the problem one part at a time. This is important usually we solve complex problems by breaking them down into manageable parts. We can then assemble the solution to the overall problem from the answers we have found "from the parts."... 

Scientists call this process the scientific method. We will discuss it in more detail in the next section. One of life s most important activities is solving problems—not "plug and chug" exercises, but real problems—problems that have new facets to them, that involve things you may have never confronted before. The more creative you are at solving these problems, the more effective you will be in your career and your personal life. Part of the reason for learning chemistry, therefore, is to become a better problem solver. Chemists are usually excellent problem solvers, because to master chemistry, you have to master the scientific approach. Chemical problems are frequently very complicated—there is usually no neat and tidy solution. Often it is difficult to know where to begin. 

The scientific method is a logical approach to solving problems that lend themselves to investigation. 

Abstract The processing quality control of adhesively bonded joints in actual production lines is discussed in this chapter. To improve the yield ratio of products, a scientific approach based on both probabilistic design and statistical treatment are indispensable. In addition, control of environmental conditions and materials is also very important. For the purpose, a realistic trial-and-error approach should be done to meet any demands or to solve problems occurring in the production. Investigation of reasons decreasing joint strength is another key point that should be done. The strength decrease occurs often due to mechanical or chemical mismatch of adherends and adhesives. The surface treatment of adherends is important too. Inspection, which can be carried out easily, is desirable in actual production lines. 

The present state of art of CALPHAD is therefore at a high level and it is a very varied and powerful approach to solving problems associated with thermochemistry and phase equilibria. It has been of interest to the present authors to document how a new scientific approach has come to fruition and it echoes a prescient lecture given by Professor Koster on the development of new ideas and concepts in science (Koster 1956). Some excerpts are given below ... 

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