Final answer:
Data are raw facts that alone may lack meaning or be misconstrued, but when contextually analyzed, can lead to informative facts. Significant figures help convey the precision of such data accurately in scientific measurements. A fact is a verifiable statement backed by data and observations.
Step-by-step explanation:
Data is/are raw facts with little or no meaning in themselves; they are the building blocks that, when processed or organized, can provide insights and information. However, without context or interpretation, data can sometimes be inadequate to the facts, highly confused, or even mixed with error and nonsense. It's essential to note that data is also subject to change in time, which means it may need updating to maintain its relevance.
When an artist presents the facts dryly, it is left to the audience to interpret these facts, filling in gaps with their imagination and potentially subjective perspectives. Conversely, in scientific fields such as qualitative sociology, observations comprising information from a natural setting aim to provide context and meaning to the otherwise stark data.
In science, concrete examples of data are seen in measurements, which are often expressed in terms of significant figures. These are numbers that describe the value of data without exaggerating its precision. For instance, it's used to denote the accuracy of measurements in quantitative research, ensuring clarity and reliability of the scientific observation.
A fact is a basic statement established by experiment or observation. It is a piece of information that has been objectively verified and is true under the specific conditions of the experiment or observation, often supported by strong evidence or data. Therefore, it is essential to differentiate between fact and opinion, as the latter cannot be empirically proven.