Introduction to Science and Its Branches

Study Notes

Definition of Science

A systematic enterprise that builds and organizes knowledge in the form of testable explanations and predictions about the universe.

Branches of Science

Natural Sciences: Study of natural phenomena.
- Physics: Study of matter, energy, and their interactions.
- Chemistry: Study of substances, their properties, and reactions.
- Biology: Study of living organisms and life processes.
Social Sciences: Study of human behavior and societies.
- Psychology: Study of the mind and behavior.
- Sociology: Study of social behavior and society.
- Economics: Study of production, distribution, and consumption of goods.
Formal Sciences: Study of abstract concepts.
- Mathematics: Study of numbers, quantities, shapes, and patterns.
- Logic: Study of reasoning.

Scientific Method

Observation: Gathering data through the senses.
Question: Formulating a question based on observations.
Hypothesis: Proposing a testable explanation.
Experimentation: Testing the hypothesis through controlled experiments.
Analysis: Interpreting data to determine if it supports the hypothesis.
Conclusion: Drawing a conclusion based on data analysis.
Replication: Repeating the experiment to verify results.

Key Concepts

Theory: A well-substantiated explanation of an aspect of the natural world.
Law: A statement based on repeated experimental observations that describe some aspects of the universe.
Variable: Any factor that can change in an experiment.
- Independent Variable: The factor that is changed or controlled.
- Dependent Variable: The factor that is measured or observed.

Importance of Science

Advances knowledge and technology.
Provides solutions to practical problems.
Enhances understanding of the universe and our place in it.
Informs policy and decision-making based on evidence.

Ethical Considerations

Conducting research responsibly and ethically.
Consideration of the societal impact of scientific work.
Transparency and honesty in reporting results.

Definition of Science

Systematic approach to building and organizing knowledge.
Focus on creating testable explanations and predictions concerning the universe.

Branches of Science

Natural Sciences: Examine natural phenomena.
- Physics: Explores matter, energy, and interactions between them.
- Chemistry: Investigates substances, their properties, and chemical reactions.
- Biology: Studies living organisms and their life processes.
Social Sciences: Analyze human behavior and societal structures.
- Psychology: Explores the mind and human behavior.
- Sociology: Studies social behavior and interactions within societies.
- Economics: Examines the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services.
Formal Sciences: Focus on abstract concepts and logical reasoning.
- Mathematics: Deals with numbers, quantities, shapes, and their relationships.
- Logic: Analyzes reasoning and argument structure.

Scientific Method

Observation: Data collection using the senses to gather information.
Question: Development of inquiries based on observed phenomena.
Hypothesis: Formulation of a testable explanation for the observations.
Experimentation: Testing hypotheses through controlled conditions and variables.
Analysis: Examination of data to assess support for the hypothesis.
Conclusion: Deriving conclusions from data analysis results.
Replication: Repeating experiments to confirm results and ensure reliability.

Key Concepts

Theory: Comprehensive explanation of a natural phenomenon supported by evidence.
Law: Consistent statement based on experimental observations describing universal aspects.
Variable: Any factor subject to change in an experiment.
- Independent Variable: The manipulated factor in an experiment.
- Dependent Variable: The factor being measured or observed as a result.

Importance of Science

Drives advancements in knowledge and technology.
Provides evidence-based solutions to real-world problems.
Deepens understanding of the universe and human existence.
Informs policy-making and decisions with data-driven insights.

Ethical Considerations

Emphasizes responsible and ethical conduct in scientific research.
Advocates for awareness of the societal impact of scientific advancements.
Stresses the importance of transparency and honesty in reporting research findings.

Description

This quiz explores the definition of science, its branches, and the scientific method. You'll learn about natural, social, and formal sciences and their sub-disciplines, such as physics, psychology, and mathematics. Test your knowledge of fundamental scientific concepts and terminology.