To be considered valid, experiments must follow a standardized method that can be repeated by anyone to verify the results. The main steps include observation, question, hypothesis, experimentation and analysis. In essence, scientists observe the world around them and conduct research by poising a question they would like answered. Next, they develop a hypothesis to predict what will happen under certain circumstances. That hypothesis is the basis for the experiment using controls and variables. The data is collected and analyzed to develop a logical conclusion. If proper records are kept, the experiment can be repeated under the same conditions.
While science relies heavily on observation and data collection, scientists from different cultures may differ on the standards of measurement they embrace. For example, Americans measure distance in miles while Canadians use kilometers. Consequently, the International System of Measurement has been established as the standard for scientific experimentation throughout the world. It is based primarily on the metric system and uses meters (m) for length, kilograms (kg) for mass, and seconds (s) to keep track of time, In addition, ampere (A) is the standard for electric current, kelvin (K) for temperature, mole (mol) for amount and candela (cd) for luminosity.
Standards in a laboratory do more than help other scientists understand results, they are also used to keep people safe. Basic safety standards must be followed at all times, especially when dealing with hazardous materials, fire and sharp objects. The materials needed include lab coats and aprons, safety goggles, gloves and tools to handle hot objects. To avoid contamination, scientists should never allow any outside food or beverage in the lab. Proper disposal of chemicals and other products must also be followed. Other precautions like a fume hood should be used to keep the air and lab area clean. Finally, in case of an emergency, all labs should be equipped with safety equipment including an eye-wash station, a CO2 fire extinguisher and an industrial first aid kit.
Standards assure that an experiment can be repeated and verified under similar conditions by any other scientist. When results are published, other scientists can verify the findings and check to see that proper procedures were followed. This process is known as "peer review." While various scientific organizations have established their own peer review process, they typically involve several levels of the organization reviewing the published results. Peer review encourages scientists to keep accurate records and not falsify data because their work needs to be repeatable by others if it is to be validated .