Observation is an act or instance of noticing or perceiving and the acquisition of information from a primary source. In living beings, observation employs the senses. In science, observation can also involve the perception and recording of data via the use of scientific instruments. The term may also refer to any data collected during the scientific activity. Observations can be qualitative, that is, only the absence or presence of a property is noted, or quantitative if a numerical value is attached to the observed phenomenon by counting or measuring. Science The scientific method requires observations of natural phenomena to formulate and test hypotheses. It consists of the following steps: Ask a question about a natural phenomenon Make observations of the phenomenon Formulate a hypothesis that tentatively answers the question Predict logical, observable consequences of the hypothesis that have not yet been investigated Test the hypothesis' predictions by an experiment, observational study, field study, or simulation Draw a conclusion from data gathered in the experiment...