//Curiosity and Testing//
Experiments are a test of an idea, procedure or method. This definition is broad enough to include many kinds of our activities that are often called experiments. Life itself could be considered to be one lengthy experiment. An experiment is not a type of discovery because discoveries are about finding facts, and experiments are about testing ideas. An invention like the airplane was discovered by someone first flying it; after that many people invented ways to fly.
//Validation and Usefulness//
It is also common that experiments lead to discoveries, but not always. For example, when Newton's apple fell on his head, he did not discover gravity; he was merely testing a hypothesis about what would happen if an apple falls from a tree. I'm not sure how to define an experiment in an exact form; perhaps another definition can be found or explored. However, I am certain that experiments can be useful for society, but they are not always useful. Those studying doctorates and researchers seeking to contribute to world of science will know the quirks of experiments and utility in the real world. It’s tough. Life is full of critique and experiments can sometimes lead one on a path towards a dead end.
//Result and Journey//
We cannot determine the usefulness of an experiment unless we have a criterion to judge it, which requires another definition. This is where approach to testing, validating and adapting yields great benefits when carried out under existing frameworks or structure. I often go back to the concept of the wheel, or not reinventing it. It pays off to be curious and to think outside of the box. But sometimes, having the necessary tools and protocols in place to make sure an experiment has a sufficient foundation is key. Experiments will continue to contribute society and it’s important to recognise that much time and thought goes behind every result. Experiments are a journey and are much more than just results.