Aplicación del método científico al extraño caso de las rocas deslizantes (sailing stones) de La Mancha

Résumé

The comprehension of the scientific method for the students and the population in general is easier if its different steps are learned analyzing specific examples. The present work shows the process that has been followed to explain the sailing stones phenomenon in the playa lakes from La Mancha (Spain). That geological phenomenon consists of heavy rocks dragging across the lake bottom. The stones leave long grooves that may remain for months even after the water lamina evaporates. The steps that have been considered in order to visualize the method are: (1) observation and definition of the problem, (2) data analyses and formulation of hypothesis, (3) testing and discussion of hypothesis and (4) drawing conclusions and publication of results. However, these steps are not isolated and have been interrelated throughout the research. This investigation has lasted for more than three years. Main conclusions and hypotheses about the genesis were published in two scientific papers and disseminated through different mass media outlets.