Core Principles of Science

• Science systematically explores the natural world through observation, experimentation, and analysis.
• It uses testable hypotheses, empirical evidence, and theories to explain and predict phenomena.
• Science is rooted in evidence, logical reasoning, and a skeptical approach.

Core Principles of Science

• Objectivity involves minimizing bias in data collection and interpretation.
• Empiricism emphasizes observation and experimentation as the basis for knowledge.
• Skepticism requires questioning claims and demanding evidence.
• Testability involves forming hypotheses that can be tested.
• Falsifiability is recognizing that theories can be disproven.
• Reproducibility ensures experiments can be repeated with similar results.

Major Branches of Science

• Natural Sciences study the physical world.
  • Physics examines matter, energy, space, and time.
  • Chemistry studies the composition, structure, properties, and reactions of matter.
  • Biology investigates living organisms, their structure, function, growth, evolution, and distribution.
  • Earth Science studies the Earth’s structure, composition, processes, and history.
  • Astronomy explores celestial objects and the universe.
• Social Sciences study human behavior, society, and culture.
  • Psychology studies the human mind, behavior, and mental processes.
  • Sociology examines social structures and interactions.
  • Anthropology investigates human cultures and their development.
  • Economics analyzes the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services.
  • Political Science studies government and politics.
• Formal Sciences focus on abstract systems.
  • Mathematics explores abstract structures and patterns using logic.
  • Computer Science deals with computer theory, design, and application.
  • Statistics focuses on data collection, analysis, and interpretation.

The Scientific Method

• The scientific method provides a systematic approach to investigations.
• Observation involves identifying a phenomenon.
• Question involves formulating a question about the phenomenon.
• Hypothesis involves developing a testable explanation.
• Prediction involves making a statement about what should occur if the hypothesis is correct.
• Experiment involves designing a controlled test to gather data.
• Analysis involves examining data to support or refute the hypothesis.
• Conclusion involves drawing inferences and determining the validity of the hypothesis.
• Communication involves sharing results through publications and presentations.

Scientific Theories and Laws

• Scientific Theory: A well-substantiated explanation incorporating facts, laws, inferences, and tested hypotheses.
  • Theories are comprehensive and can be modified.
• Scientific Law: A descriptive statement or equation that predicts events reliably.
  • Laws are based on repeated observations and are fundamental.

Importance of Science

• Science drives technological advancements.
• It improves our understanding of the world.
• It contributes to medical breakthroughs.
• Science informs policy decisions.
• Science empowers informed choices.
• Science promotes critical thinking.

Measurement and Units

• Science uses quantitative measurements.
• The International System of Units (SI) is the standard.
• Fundamental SI units include:
  • Meter (m) for length.
  • Kilogram (kg) for mass.
  • Second (s) for time.
  • Ampere (A) for electric current.
  • Kelvin (K) for temperature.
  • Mole (mol) for amount of substance.
  • Candela (cd) for luminous intensity.
• Scientific notation expresses very large or small numbers.

Data Collection and Analysis

• Data collection involves gathering information.
• Data can be qualitative (descriptive) or quantitative (numerical).
• Statistical analysis summarizes and interprets data.
• Common statistical measures include:
  • Mean: The average value.
  • Median: The middle value.
  • Mode: The most frequent value.
  • Standard Deviation: A measure of data spread.

Scientific Communication

• Scientific communication shares research findings.
• Scientists communicate through:
  • Peer-reviewed publications
  • Conferences
  • Scientific journals
  • Books and articles
  • Online platforms
• Peer review involves evaluation by experts.

Ethics in Science

• Scientific research must be ethical.
• Ethical considerations include:
  • Honesty in data collection.
  • Objectivity in research.
  • Protection of human subjects and animal welfare.
  • Respect for intellectual property and avoidance of plagiarism.
  • Transparency in sharing findings.
• Institutions have ethical guidelines.

Impact of Science on Society

• Science has transformed society through advancements in:
  • Medicine
  • Agriculture
  • Transportation
  • Energy
  • IT
• Scientific literacy is essential for engaging with complex issues.

Science explores the natural world through observation, experimentation, and analysis. Key principles include objectivity, empiricism, and testability. Scientific theories can be proven wrong if contradictory evidence is found, and experiments should be reproducible.