Introduction to Biology

• Science is the systematic study of the physical and natural world through measurement, experiment, observation, and formulation of laws.
• Science informs problem-solving and decision-making skills in many areas of life.
• The branches of science are categorized into different types of subjects to cover different areas of studies.

Biology

• Biology is the study of every plant, animal or micro-organism that is, or was once alive.
• Biology is derived from Greek words 'bios' meaning life, and 'logos' meaning study.
• Biologists study the structure, distribution, and breeding of new varieties of living organisms.
• Biology helps understand how living beings work, function, and interact.
• It helps in developing better medicines and treatments for diseases.
• It helps understand how a changing environment affects plants and animals.
• It facilitates the production of genetically improved crop plants.
• Biologists can work in laboratories or in the field to perform research, such as studying bacterial cultures or observing animals and plants in their native habitats.
• Nepalese scientists at NARC develop genetically improved cereals like maize, rice, and wheat.
• Many biologists at NAST look for new discoveries in biology, healthcare, and conservation.
• Biology is classified into Botany (study of plants), Zoology (study of animals), and Microbiology (study of micro-organisms).
• Sanduk Ruit, an eye surgeon from Nepal, has restored sight to over 130,000 people with small-incision cataract surgery and is known for his contribution in introducing low-cost intraocular lenses.

Physics

• Sir Isaac Newton (1642-1727) discovered the law of universal gravitation and laws of motion.
• Galileo Galilei (1564-1642) discovered hydrostatic balance, thermoscope, and telescope.
• Albert Einstein (1879-1955) developed the special theory of relativity, equation E = mc², and the quantum theory of light.
• Physics is the study of nature and natural phenomena.
• The persons who study physics are called physicists.
• Physicists have made inventions in fields that have helped reduce energy use and produce more instruments.
• Isamu Akasaki, Hiroshi Amano, and Shuji Nakamura won the Nobel Prize in 2014 for the invention of efficient blue light-emitting diodes.

Chemistry

• Dimitri Mendeleev (1834-1907) classified the elements into seven periods and eight groups based on atomic mass.
• Chemistry is the study of the structure, composition, properties, and energy changes of matter.
• It focuses on atoms, ions, and molecules and their interactions through chemical bonds.
• The persons who study chemistry are called chemists.
• Chemists explore new things to improve mankind's livelihood.

Earth Science

• Earth science studies the components of the Earth such as land, water, and air.
• Earth science includes the study of atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere and biosphere.
• Earth science informs important decisions and affects everyday life, as seen with meteorologists, hydrologists, and seismologists.
• Geology is the study of the origin, history, evolution, and structure of the Earth's crust.
• The persons who study the earth are called geologists.
• Meteorology studies the atmosphere, including weather and climate.
• The persons who study meteorology are called meteorologists.

Environmental Science

• Environmental science is an interdisciplinary field concerned with the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of the surroundings in which organisms live.
• Environmental science helps understand our relationship with the environment, solve problems and enables health, longevity, peace, and prosperity.
• The persons who study the environment are called environmentalists.

Astronomy

• Astronomy is the scientific study of celestial bodies and phenomena originating beyond Earth such as stars, comets, and galaxies.
• Since the 20th century, there have been main types of astronomy: observational and theoretical astronomy.
• The persons who study astronomy are called astronomers.

Basic safety rules in a Laboratory

• Wear an apron.
• Work in the presence of a teacher.
• Know the locations of safety equipment.
• Maintain a tidy workspace.
• Wash hands with soap and water.
• Never mix, measure, or heat chemicals in front of faces.
• Read precautions and labels.
• Do not touch, smell, or taste chemicals.
• Store chemicals and apparatus properly.
• Use only small amounts of chemicals, as directed.
• Avoid startling others or wearing jewelry.
• Inspect all equipment regularly.
• Dispose of waste properly.
• Ensure proper ventilation and lighting.

Science and Technology

• Science and technology have made life easier with inventions like pens, agricultural tools, microscopes, light bulbs, and computers.
• James Watt invented the steam engine, revolutionizing transportation and modern commercial development.
• Nuclear power plants provide energy but also have risks.
• Science and technology have led to curable diseases.
• Technology is used in education, health, trade and communication.

Scientific Achievement challenges

• In transportation, convenience is achieved, but there are associated environmental and ecosystem impacts
• Agriculture has improved food production but has caused hazards to human health and to the environment
• Environmental preservation is achieved, but there are negative effects, such as loss of natural habitat and climate change
• Healthcare has improved, but there are risks associated with cell damage

Education and industry benefits

• ICT, research, distance learning, and information are more accessible, although learning has negative impacts
• The rise of modern machines has made consumption easier, but pollutants have caused degradation of the environment
• AI systems can increase accuracy and decision-making skills, there is high potential for misuse, and opportunities decrease

Scientific Measurement

• Physical Quantity: Any measurable quantity which consists of a magnitude and unit.
• Allows for the subject of natural phenomena to be approached quantitatively.

Scientific Notation

• Scientific Notation: A method of writing very large/small numbers easily in standard form using exponents with a power of ten.
• Numbers are expressed as ax10b, where 1≤ a < 10 and b is a positive/negative index.
• Used to show very large/small numbers conveniently in a way that is easier to work with.

Metric Prefix

• Metric Prefix: Describes multiples/submultiples of a unit.
• The prefixes either divide or multiply by 10, 100, 1000.
• Kilometer: One thousand meters.
• Millimeter: One-thousandth of a meter.
• The metric system is suitable for scientific calculations due to its categorization by factors of 10.
• Metric systems are understandable and can be applied to any metric unit, categorized internationally

Importance of Least Count

• Least Count: The smallest and most accurate physical quantity that a device is able to measure.
• The smaller the least count, the more precise the device.

Uses of Average

• An average is the value which is obtained by adding all the items of a series and dividing this total by the number of items
• Average is a single figure that represents the whole group
• Using averages: the overall picture of a series is clear, study guidance, concise descriptions, and performance are clear.

Unit Considerations

• SI Units: should be used to maintain comparability.
• With Scientific Notation: calculations of very large/small numbers is easier and more viable.
• Through Experimentation: theories are tested, knowledge increases, and the existence of entities is proven.
• Least counts: help to get accurate readings for measurement.