Scientific method principles and applications

¶ … scientific method is the collection of processes one typically uses in scientific investigation when new scientific knowledge is desired, based upon physical evidence ("Scientific," 2004). The scientific method, traditionally, follows a series of steps. First, a question must be asked or a problem identified. Next, one must gather information in an attempt to answer the question and from there solutions can be proposed. The hypothesis is then tested either by conducting an experiment or making further observations. From this point, the results can be analyzed and scientific theory will either be constructed, supported or cast doubt upon (Schafersman, 1994).

In this particular situation, I have noticed that grass on my property is brown, short and dead. The grass, however, in the neighbor's yard is not. Instead, it is green, tall and alive. The burning question is, why? Why is my neighbor's lawn thriving, while mine is dying?

The Grass is Always Greener

The scientific method is the collection of processes one typically uses in scientific investigation when new scientific knowledge is desired, based upon physical evidence ("Scientific," 2004). The scientific method, traditionally, follows a series of steps. First, a question must be asked or a problem identified. Next, one must gather information in an attempt to answer the question and from there solutions can be proposed. The hypothesis is then tested either by conducting an experiment or making further observations. From this point, the results can be analyzed and scientific theory will either be constructed, supported or cast doubt upon (Schafersman, 1994).

In this particular situation, I have noticed that grass on my property is brown, short and dead. The grass, however, in the neighbor's yard is not. Instead, it is green, tall and alive. The burning question is, why? Why is my neighbor's lawn thriving, while mine is dying?

My hypothesis is that my neighbor must be maintaining his lawn in a far superior way then I am. As both of our lawns receive the same amount of sunlight and equal amounts of rain, and both lawns are comprised of the same variety of grass, there must be something that he is doing to care for his lawn that is more effective than my methods. As such, my data gathering and testing will be directed towards this hypothesis.

First, I will monitor and track exactly which lawn maintenance methods my neighbor is using. I will ask him directly for his lawn maintenance schedule, and also monitor his actions to ensure that they coincide with the information he gives. There are several areas that could be attributed to his superior looking lawn.

Although our lawns receive the same amount of natural rainfall, it is possible that his lawn is getting more water than mine. I do not supplement the watering of my lawn and perhaps he is watering his lawn in addition to rainfall. If so, the amount of water, and the timing of the water application will need to be noted.

Also, noting the length difference of the two lawns, perhaps he is not cutting his lawn as often, or is maintaining it at a longer length then I maintain mine at. His mowing schedule will be notated, as will the length of the grass after it is cut.

The one last obvious area of difference may be in fertilization of the lawns. Currently, I do not fertilize my lawn at all. Perhaps my green thumbed neighbor has been using some mix of fertilizer that has been very effective in growing his lush, green lawn.