Measurements and instrumentation

Scientists use many skills as they investigate the world around them. They make observations by gathering information with their senses. Some observations are simple. For example, a simple observation would be figuring out the color or texture of an object. However, if scientists want to know more about a substance, they may need to take measurements.

Measurement is perhaps one of the most fundamental concepts in science. Without the ability to measure, it would be difficult for scientists to conduct experiments or form theories. Not only is measurement important in science and the chemical industry, it is also essential in farming, engineering, construction, manufacturing, commerce, and numerous other occupations and activities.

The word “measurement” comes from the Greek word “metron,” which means “limited proportion.” Measurement is a technique in which properties of an object are determined by comparing them to a standard.

Measurements require tools and provide scientists with a quantity. A quantity describes how much of something there is or how many there are. A good example of measurement is using a ruler to find the length of an object. The object is whatever you are measuring, the property you are trying to determine is the object’s length, and the standard you are comparing the object’s length to is the ruler.