What does the term "data" refer to in a scientific context?

In a scientific context, the term "data" refers specifically to information that is collected through observation or experimentation regarding natural phenomena. This data can include measurements, statistics, survey responses, or any factual information that has been gathered through systematic methods.

This definition is essential because it emphasizes the objective nature of data, which is fundamentally critical for scientific inquiry. Data serves as the foundation upon which scientists build their hypotheses, conduct analysis, and draw conclusions. It is distinguished from other concepts such as personal opinions, which are subjective and influenced by individual beliefs, or predictions about future events, which are speculative and do not rely on evidence from prior observations. Similarly, interpretations of experimental results are derived from data but are not themselves classified as data. The interpretation seeks to make sense of the data collected, applying reasoning and context to explain why certain results were observed.

Thus, recognizing "data" as the factual information collected helps clarify its role in the scientific process, highlighting that solid conclusions and advancements in knowledge are built upon reliable and well-collected data.