Final answer:
Most scientific investigations start with facts obtained through observation and description, which lead to the formulation of a hypothesis. This hypothesis is then tested through experiments. The repeated testing and confirmation of hypotheses contribute to the development of scientific theories or laws.
Step-by-step explanation:
Most scientific investigations begin with a set of facts about nature. These facts are usually obtained first through observation and description. This is the step where scientists gather preliminary evidence based on noticing phenomena in the natural world or existing scientific research. After making these initial observations, scientists often formulate a hypothesis - a testable explanation for the observations made. The hypothesis is a crucial part of the scientific method as it guides the scientific inquiry and can be tested through experiments.
The steps in the scientific method commonly involve observing natural phenomena, forming a hypothesis based on these observations, and then testing the hypothesis with an experiment. Confirmation of the hypothesis through repeated testing can lead to the development of a scientific theory or law, a broader explanation of related findings gathered over time. Thus, the process is both systematic and iterative.