Solving Problems Using a Scientific Approach

The launch of the space shuttle gives clear indications that chemical reactions are occurring. 

Chemistry is often called the central science—and with good reason. Most of the phenomena that occur in the world around us involve chemical changes, changes where one or more substances become different substances. Here are some examples of chemical changes  

Wood burns in air, forming water, carbon dioxide, and other substances. 

A plant grows by assembling simple substances into more complex substances. 

and baking powder are mixed and baked to yield a cake. 

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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 ... 

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. 

This SPS team was empowered to improve their system. Upper management simply said, OK, see if you can fix it The team s solution used a simple path of least resistance. For a more complex solution set, they may have selected multivariate regression modeling or hired an outside statistical consultant.The main point is that they used a scientifically proven, systematic approach to solving a complex problem, through teamwork and simple observational and analytical techniques. 

These experiments provided the first proof that the question of the origin of life is a scientific problem which can be approached (and possibly solved) by using scientific methodology. 

The microkinetic analysis is certainly a scientifically interesting approach which will contribute to the identification and selection of catalytic compounds even in more complex situations as described above. One problem still to be solved is the experimental procurement and/or estimation of the parameters used in microkinetic simulations, which limits the wide applicability of the method. Providing kinetic parameters for a complex reaction network from kinetic experiments for an analogous catalyst is a time-consuming process. Despite the availability of modem experimental equipment and efficient computers, a complex reaction demands at least one man year of work [51]. The estimation of parameters by ab initio or semiempirical methods has to be considered with caution because ideal surfaces are usually assumed. 

The term paradigm was popularized by Thomas Kuhn in his book. The Structure of Scientific Revolutions, first published in 1962. Borrowing the word from linguistics, Kuhn used the term to indicate a specific way of viewing scientific reality, the mindset of a scientific community. Some of Kuhn s examples include Copemican astronomy, Newtonian dynamics, and quantum mechanics. Each of these paradigms affected the choice of problems that were considered worthy of solution, as well as acceptable approaches to solving those problems. [8]... 

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."... 

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