Introduction to Science

Definition of Science

• Systematic enterprise that builds and organizes knowledge.
• Involves observation, experimentation, and the formulation of laws and theories.

Branches of Science

1. Natural Sciences

   • Study of the natural world.
   • Includes physics, chemistry, biology, earth sciences, and astronomy.

2. Formal Sciences

   • Study of abstract concepts and logic.
   • Includes mathematics, statistics, and computer science.

3. Social Sciences

   • Study of human behavior and societies.
   • Includes psychology, sociology, anthropology, and economics.

Scientific Method

• A systematic approach to inquiry.

1. Observation: Gathering data through senses or instruments.
2. Question: Identifying a problem or curiosity.
3. Hypothesis: Formulating a testable prediction.
4. Experimentation: Conducting tests to gather evidence.
5. Analysis: Interpreting data and results.
6. Conclusion: Drawing insights and determining if hypothesis is supported.
7. Peer Review: Sharing findings for validation by the scientific community.

Key Concepts

• Theory: Well-substantiated explanation based on a body of evidence (e.g., theory of evolution).
• Law: Statement that describes an observable phenomenon (e.g., laws of motion).
• Hypothesis: Testable statement that can be supported or refuted.

Importance of Science

• Drives technological advances and innovations.
• Informs public policy and decision-making.
• Enhances understanding of the universe and our place in it.

Ethical Considerations in Science

• Integrity in research and reporting.
• Consideration of human and environmental impacts.
• Responsible use of scientific knowledge and technology.

Definition of Science

• Systematic methodology aimed at building and organizing knowledge about the universe.
• Reliance on observation and experimentation for formulating laws and theories regarding natural phenomena.

Branches of Science

• Natural Sciences: Focus on the investigation of the natural world, encompassing:

  • Physics: Study of matter, energy, and their interactions.
  • Chemistry: Exploration of substances, their properties, and reactions.
  • Biology: Examination of living organisms and life processes.
  • Earth Sciences: Analysis of the Earth’s structure, properties, and processes.
  • Astronomy: Study of celestial bodies and the universe's phenomena.

• Formal Sciences: Deal with abstract concepts and logical reasoning, including:

  • Mathematics: The study of numbers, quantities, shapes, and space.
  • Statistics: Analysis of data and its interpretation.
  • Computer Science: Focus on computation, algorithms, and information systems.

• Social Sciences: Investigate human behavior and societal structures, comprising:

  • Psychology: Study of mental processes and behavior.
  • Sociology: Examination of social structures and relationships.
  • Anthropology: Exploration of humans and cultures, both past and present.
  • Economics: Study of resource distribution and economic behavior.

Scientific Method

• A structured approach guiding scientific inquiry consisting of several steps:
  • Observation: Collecting information through direct sensory experience or instruments.
  • Question: Formulating a problem or query that prompts investigation.
  • Hypothesis: Developing a testable prediction based on observations.
  • Experimentation: Conducting systematic tests to gather empirical evidence.
  • Analysis: Evaluating data and outcomes to derive meaning.
  • Conclusion: Determining if the hypothesis is supported or refuted by the evidence.
  • Peer Review: Conducting evaluations by the scientific community to validate findings.

Key Concepts

• Theory: Comprehensive explanation grounded in extensive evidence, such as the theory of evolution.
• Law: A statement that consistently describes observable phenomena, like Newton's laws of motion.
• Hypothesis: A statement that can be empirically tested, either confirmed or disproven through research.

Importance of Science

• Catalyst for technological progress and innovation across various fields.
• Guides public policy development and informed decision-making.
• Deepens understanding of the universe and humanity's role within it.

Ethical Considerations in Science

• Emphasizes integrity in research methodology and reporting outcomes.
• Acknowledges potential impacts on human subjects and the environment.
• Advocates for the responsible utilization of scientific findings and technological advancements.

Explore the fundamental concepts of science, including its definition, branches, and the scientific method. This quiz covers the systematic approach to inquiry and the various fields that contribute to our understanding of the natural and social worlds.