Problem: Why does the color of a solution change when a certain chemical is added?
Steps of the Scientific Method:
1. Observation: The solution changes color upon adding the chemical.
2. Hypothesis: The chemical reacts with the solution, causing a change in its chemical composition and thus its color.
3. Experiment: Mix the chemical with the solution in a controlled environment, observing the color change and recording any other relevant data.
4. Analysis: Analyze the data collected and determine if the hypothesis is supported. If the color change is due to a chemical reaction, identify the reaction products and the mechanism of the reaction.
5. Conclusion: Based on the analysis, draw conclusions about the cause of the color change and refine the hypothesis if necessary.
This is a simplified example, but it demonstrates the application of the scientific method to a chemistry-related problem.