Introduction to Science and Its Branches

Study Notes

Definition of Science

Systematic enterprise that builds and organizes knowledge through observation and experimentation.
Aims to explain natural phenomena and predict outcomes.

Branches of Science

Natural Sciences
- Focus on the physical world.
- Includes:
  - Physics: Study of matter, energy, and the fundamental forces.
  - Chemistry: Study of substances, their properties, and reactions.
  - Biology: Study of living organisms and life processes.
Formal Sciences
- Concerned with abstract concepts and logical reasoning.
- Includes:
  - Mathematics: Study of numbers, quantities, and shapes.
  - Computer Science: Study of algorithms, data structures, and computation.
Social Sciences
- Study of human behavior and societal structures.
- Includes:
  - Psychology: Study of the mind and behavior.
  - Sociology: Study of society and social behavior.
  - Economics: Study of production, distribution, and consumption of goods.
Applied Sciences
- Practical application of scientific knowledge.
- Includes:
  - Engineering: Application of science and math to design and build.
  - Medicine: Application of biology and chemistry to health and disease.

Scientific Method

Observation: Gathering data through sensory experience.
Hypothesis: Formulating a testable statement based on observations.
Experimentation: Conducting tests to validate or refute the hypothesis.
Analysis: Interpreting data collected during experimentation.
Conclusion: Drawing results from analysis; supporting or rejecting the hypothesis.
Replication: Repeating experiments to verify findings.

Importance of Science

Provides a framework for understanding the natural world.
Drives technological advancement and innovation.
Informs public policy and decision-making.
Promotes critical thinking and empirical reasoning.

Ethical Considerations

Scientific research must adhere to ethical standards to protect human and environmental welfare.
Ensures integrity, honesty, and accountability in conducting and reporting research.

Current Trends in Science

Interdisciplinary research combining multiple scientific fields.
Advancements in artificial intelligence and big data analytics.
Focus on sustainability and environmental conservation.
Increased emphasis on health sciences and biotechnology.

Definition of Science

Science is a systematic process built on observation, experimentation, and analysis.
It aims to explain natural phenomena and predict future occurrences.

Branches of Science

Natural Sciences focus on the physical world.
- Physics: Study of matter, energy, and fundamental forces.
- Chemistry: Studies substances, their properties, and their reactions.
- Biology: Explores living organisms and life processes.
Formal Sciences deal with abstract concepts and logical reasoning.
- Mathematics: Study of numbers, quantities, and shapes.
- Computer Science: Study of algorithms, data structures, and computation.
Social Sciences explore human behavior and societal structures.
- Psychology: Study of the mind and behavior.
- Sociology: Study of society and social behavior.
- Economics: Study of production, distribution, and consumption of goods.
Applied Sciences focus on practical applications of scientific knowledge.
- Engineering: Applies science and math to design and build.
- Medicine: Applies biology and chemistry to health and disease.

Scientific Method

Observation: Gathering data through sensory experiences.
Hypothesis: A testable statement based on observations.
Experimentation: Designed tests to validate or refute the hypothesis.
Analysis: Interpreting data collected during experimentation.
Conclusion: Drawing results from analysis; supporting or rejecting the hypothesis.
Replication: Repeating experiments to verify findings.

Importance of Science

Provides a framework for understanding the natural world.
Drives technological advancement and innovation.
Informs public policy and decision-making.
Promotes critical thinking and empirical reasoning.

Ethical Considerations

Scientific research must adhere to ethical standards for the protection of human and environmental welfare.
Ensures integrity, honesty, and accountability in research practices.

Current Trends in Science

Interdisciplinary research: Combining multiple scientific fields for a deeper understanding.
Advancements in artificial intelligence and big data analytics: New tools for analyzing complex information.
Focus on sustainability and environmental conservation: addressing global challenges like climate change.
Increased emphasis on health sciences and biotechnology: Developing new treatments and technologies to improve human health.

Description

Explore the systematic study of science, its definition, and the various branches it encompasses. Delve into the natural, formal, and social sciences, understanding their key concepts and scope. This quiz will help reinforce your knowledge about the fundamental aspects of science.