Introduction to Science and Its Branches

Study Notes

Definition of Science

Systematic enterprise that builds and organizes knowledge.
Involves observation, experimentation, and analysis.

Branches of Science

Natural Sciences
- Study of natural phenomena.
- Divided into:
  - Physics: matter, energy, and forces.
  - Chemistry: substances, their properties, and reactions.
  - Biology: life and living organisms.
Formal Sciences
- Involves abstract concepts and systems.
- Includes:
  - Mathematics: study of numbers, quantities, and shapes.
  - Logic: principles of valid reasoning.
Social Sciences
- Study of human behavior and societies.
- Includes:
  - Psychology: study of the mind and behavior.
  - Sociology: study of social behavior and societies.
  - Economics: study of production, distribution, and consumption of goods.
Applied Sciences
- Practical application of scientific knowledge.
- Encompasses:
  - Engineering: application of scientific principles to design and build.
  - Medicine: application of biological sciences for health.

Scientific Method

A systematic approach to inquiry:
1. Observation: gathering information.
2. Question: identifying a problem to solve.
3. Hypothesis: proposing a testable explanation.
4. Experimentation: conducting tests to support or refute the hypothesis.
5. Analysis: evaluating the data collected.
6. Conclusion: determining if the hypothesis is supported.

Importance of Science

Enhances understanding of the world.
Drives technological and medical advancements.
Informs policies and decision-making.
Encourages critical thinking and problem-solving.

Scientific Literacy

Understanding scientific concepts and processes.
Ability to evaluate scientific information and research.
Importance for informed citizenship in a technological society.

Definition of Science

A systematic endeavor that constructs and organizes knowledge through structured processes.
Engages in observation, experimentation, and analysis to expand understanding.

Branches of Science

Natural Sciences: Focus on studying the natural world and its phenomena.
- Physics: Investigates matter, energy, and the fundamental forces of nature.
- Chemistry: Examines the properties, composition, and transformations of substances.
- Biology: Explores life forms and their interactions with the environment.
Formal Sciences: Concerned with abstract concepts and logical reasoning.
- Mathematics: Analyzes numbers, quantities, structures, and shapes.
- Logic: Studies the principles and criteria of valid reasoning.
Social Sciences: Analyzes human behavior and societal structures.
- Psychology: Investigates mental processes and behavior patterns.
- Sociology: Studies social interactions and the organization of societies.
- Economics: Explores the production, distribution, and consumption of resources.
Applied Sciences: Utilizes scientific knowledge to address practical issues.
- Engineering: Integrates scientific principles to design and construct various systems.
- Medicine: Applies biological sciences to improve health and treat illnesses.

Scientific Method

A structured approach for conducting research and inquiry.
- Observation: Involves gathering detailed information from the natural world.
- Question: Identifies specific problems or phenomena to investigate.
- Hypothesis: Proposes a testable explanation for the observed issues.
- Experimentation: Involves systematic testing to validate or challenge the hypothesis.
- Analysis: Evaluates and interprets the collected data for insights.
- Conclusion: Determines the validity of the hypothesis based on the experimental results.

Importance of Science

Contributes to a deeper understanding of various aspects of the world.
Spurs innovations in technology and advancements in medical fields.
Informs critical policies and decision-making processes in society.
Promotes critical thinking and enhances problem-solving abilities.

Scientific Literacy

Encompasses the comprehension of scientific concepts and methodologies.
Fosters the ability to critically evaluate scientific information and research findings.
Essential for active and informed participation in a technologically advanced society.

Description

Explore the fundamental concepts of science and its various branches through this quiz. Delve into Natural, Formal, Social, and Applied Sciences, and understand how each field contributes to the overall knowledge system. Perfect for students looking to grasp the essentials of scientific study.