What differentiates a "fact" from other forms of information in a scientific context?

In a scientific context, a "fact" is characterized by its objectivity and reliability. It is based on data that can be consistently observed and measured, making it highly replicable by different researchers using the same methods under similar conditions. This consistency lends itself to the notion that facts are immutable in the sense that, while our understanding or interpretation of the data may evolve, the underlying observations remain constant unless new evidence suggests a necessary revision.

This reliability is key in differentiating facts from other forms of information that may be influenced by personal perspectives or subject to frequent changes. Unlike opinions, which can vary greatly among individuals, or personal experiences that are subjective and not necessarily replicable, facts serve as a foundational element of scientific inquiry. They are established through rigorous testing and experimentation, ensuring a level of trustworthiness that is essential for developing scientific theories and advancing knowledge. Thus, the nature of facts as being derived from highly replicable and immutable data sets them apart in the realm of scientific information.