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.