Why is the experiment planned?

Most often, in carrying out certain scientific studies, a hypothetical method is used, in which an assumption is made about the cause that caused certain consequences. Then this assumption is tested by experience so that it can be called an affirmation. All this requires certain material and time costs, since several experiments with the same initial data are necessary to obtain a reliable result. To reduce the number of parallel studies and options for combining these or other factors will help carefully planned the experiment.

This can be achieved by selecting such test conditions, in which the results of statistical processing of the obtained values of the output parameter will make adequate conclusions about the process under investigation. Planning the experiment involves finding a definite mathematical model that will make it possible to describe the process most closely. The choice of the plan is realized as a result of the analysis of information matrices. It should be noted that the progress of the statistical analysis of the experimental data obtained and its effectiveness directly depend on the plan. When choosing a plan, it is necessary:

• Determine the criterion for planning the experiment;
• To develop a model that will most closely describe the structure and nature of the relationships in the object or process under study;
• To compare the obtained model with the existing ones, with standard plans. Based on the analysis, select the optimal plan.

The theory of experimental planning is widely used in various branches of science and technology. At the same time, turning to a specific topic, it is necessary to take into account certain nuances and peculiarities of this scientific field in order to correctly prepare and conduct empirical studies, the purpose of which in most cases is to find the optimal conditions under which the parameters of the object under study (the response of the system) have extreme values There is a maximum or minimum value.

Planning an experiment allows you to minimize time, especially if several different factors influence the final result of the experiment, and the consumption of material resources. Each experience can bring to the researcher the maximum possible amount of information. This can only be achieved if the practical part is properly prepared and conducted.

The planning and organization of the experiment involves

• Choice of the number of variable factors. Here, you need to select the most significant variables that affect the response function. They can be determined in the course of performing preliminary search experiments, reviewing literary sources;
• The determination of the number of levels of each variable factor. In this case, either a qualitative or quantitative level is determined, which can also be fixed or random. There are no definite recommendations for finding the interval for changing factors, so at this point it is worthwhile to turn to literary sources to determine possible intervals for changing the factor, or to take advantage of your own personal experience;
• Determine the required number of measurements of the value of the response function. This number depends on the established limitations, the required accuracy and the possible impact of one factor on another.

Thus, the planning of an experiment is a powerful tool in the hands of each scientific worker, which makes it possible to significantly shorten the time for performing the research and to increase their accuracy to the required level. Each researcher not only needs to know this method, but also successfully apply it in practice, in order to achieve the goal with minimal costs.