Branches of Science and Scientific Method

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Questions and Answers

What is a key difference between scientific laws and theories?

  • Laws are flexible concepts, while theories are rigid frameworks.
  • Laws are based on past observations, whereas theories are predictions.
  • Laws describe relationships in nature, while theories explain phenomena. (correct)
  • Laws require experimental proof, while theories are universally accepted.

How are scientific laws typically expressed?

  • Via qualitative descriptions that vary by observation.
  • In graphical representations to illustrate trends.
  • Through mathematical equations that quantify relationships. (correct)
  • In narrative form to describe scenarios.

What role does science play in addressing societal challenges?

  • It helps in technological advancements that enhance our lives. (correct)
  • It offers purely theoretical viewpoints that lack direct application.
  • It focuses solely on historical events without addressing current issues.
  • It provides philosophical arguments without practical implications.

What do scientific theories primarily provide?

<p>A framework that supports a variety of observations. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does understanding scientific principles benefit decision-making?

<p>It enables informed decision-making regarding health and environmental issues. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which branch of science is primarily concerned with studying living organisms?

<p>Life sciences (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step in the scientific method?

<p>Observation (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of reasoning involves deriving specific conclusions from general premises?

<p>Deductive reasoning (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does ethical consideration play in scientific research?

<p>Ensures transparency and accuracy in data analysis. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the scientific method allow for changes in research?

<p>It is iterative and flexible. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what way does scientific communication contribute to the scientific community?

<p>It fosters collaboration and feedback. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a key step in the scientific method?

<p>Synthesis (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary focus of formal sciences?

<p>Examination of abstract concepts (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Scientific Law

A fundamental relationship or pattern in nature that is often expressed in mathematical terms and applies universally.

Scientific Theory

A well-substantiated explanation for a natural phenomenon based on observations and experimental results.

Importance of Science

Science helps us understand the world, solve problems, and make informed decisions about our planet, health, and technology.

Law vs. Theory

Scientific laws are universal and always true, while scientific theories can evolve as new evidence emerges.

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Scientific Progress

Science is a powerful tool for advancing human knowledge and addressing societal challenges.

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Life sciences

The study of natural phenomena, including living organisms and their interactions, like plants, animals, and ecosystems.

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Formal sciences

The study of abstract concepts and systems, like mathematics and logic. It doesn't involve physical experiments but explores relationships and patterns.

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Scientific method

A structured process for investigating natural phenomena. It involves observation, hypothesis formation, prediction, experimentation, and analysis to draw conclusions.

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Inductive reasoning

The process of drawing general conclusions from specific observations. It relies on patterns and trends to formulate broader ideas.

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Deductive reasoning

The process of drawing specific conclusions from general premises. It applies known rules to specific cases.

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Scientific communication

Sharing scientific findings through publications, conferences, and presentations. This allows for review, feedback, and collaboration among researchers.

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Ethics in science

Honesty, integrity, respect, and transparency are key principles guiding ethical research practices. This includes avoiding plagiarism and ensuring participant well-being.

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What is science?

Science is a systematic and organized way of understanding the universe. It seeks to build and organize knowledge based on testable explanations and predictions.

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Study Notes

Branches of Science

  • Science is a systematic approach to understanding the universe through testable explanations and predictions.
  • It encompasses two main categories: natural sciences (studying natural phenomena) and formal sciences (studying abstract concepts).
  • Natural sciences are further divided into physical sciences (non-living matter and energy) and life sciences (living organisms and interactions).
  • Physical sciences include physics, chemistry, and astronomy.
  • Life sciences include biology, ecology, and genetics.

Scientific Method

  • The scientific method provides a structured process for scientific investigation.
  • Steps involved are observation, question formation, hypothesis (possible explanation), prediction (if-then statement), experiment (testing), analysis (examining results), and conclusion.
  • The method is iterative; adjustments can be made based on new data and observations.

Scientific Reasoning

  • Deductive reasoning draws specific conclusions from general principles.
  • Inductive reasoning derives general conclusions from specific observations.
  • Abductive reasoning proposes explanations for observed phenomena.
  • Critical thinking is essential to assess scientific claims and evidence.

Scientific Communication

  • Sharing scientific knowledge is vital for progress.
  • Communication occurs through peer-reviewed publications, conferences, and presentations.
  • This allows for scrutiny, feedback, and collaboration.
  • Open access to scientific information fosters broader understanding and diverse perspectives.

Ethics in Science

  • Ethical considerations are crucial in scientific research.
  • Key ethical guidelines include honesty and integrity in data handling, respect for participants (especially humans and animals), avoidance of plagiarism, and transparent research practices.

Scientific Laws and Theories

  • Scientific laws describe fundamental patterns in nature, often expressed mathematically.
  • Scientific theories explain phenomena based on well-supported evidence.
  • Theories encompass a wide range of observations and experimental outcomes.

Importance of Science

  • Science addresses societal challenges and expands human knowledge.
  • It drives technological advancements that enhance our lives.
  • Scientific principles inform decisions about environmental issues, health, and sustainability.
  • Scientific progress deepens our understanding of the universe and our place within it.

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