Minska has a problem. When she turns on a lamp, the lamp doesn't light. She wonders if the lamp is plugged into the outlet. She checks the outlet and discovers that it is plugged in.

Which stage of the scientific method is Minska in when she looks at the outlet?

a) a problem is presented
b) evidence is gathered
c) a conclusion is made
d) an explanation is thought of

And you think?

a problem is presented

I don't think so. A problem is presented when she turns on the light and there is no light. It appears to me that she has gathered evidence.

The stage of the scientific method that Minska is in when she looks at the outlet is b) evidence is gathered. In this stage, the individual collects data or information to better understand the problem or phenomenon they are investigating. By checking if the lamp is plugged into the outlet, Minska is gathering evidence to help her understand why the lamp is not lighting up.