What term is used to describe information that is derived from observation or experiment?

The term that describes information derived from observation or experiment is "empirical." Empirical data is based on actual and measurable evidence that comes from direct observations or experiments. This type of information is essential in scientific inquiry as it provides a foundation for conclusions that can be tested and verified through experimentation and further observation. It emphasizes the importance of experience and evidence over conjecture or theory.

In the context of scientific research and methodologies, empirical evidence is valuable because it supports or refutes hypotheses in a concrete manner. This contrasts with concepts like theoretical, which is based on abstract ideas or models not necessarily grounded in direct observation, and hypothetical or speculative, which involve assumptions or guesses that may not be validated by real-world data.