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
- Focus on the physical world.
- Subdivisions:
  - Physics: Study of matter and energy.
  - Chemistry: Study of substances and their interactions.
  - Biology: Study of living organisms.
Formal Sciences
- Study of abstract concepts.
- Includes:
  - Mathematics: Numbers, quantities, shapes.
  - Logic: Principles of valid reasoning.
  - Statistics: Collection and analysis of data.
Social Sciences
- Study of human behavior and societies.
- Subdivisions:
  - Psychology: Study of mind and behavior.
  - Sociology: Study of social behavior and society.
  - Economics: Study of production, distribution, and consumption.

Scientific Method

Observation: Gathering data through senses.
Question: Formulating a question based on observations.
Hypothesis: Proposing a testable explanation.
Experimentation: Conducting tests to validate or refute the hypothesis.
Analysis: Interpreting data and results.
Conclusion: Drawing results based on analysis and evaluating the hypothesis.

Importance of Science

Advances knowledge and technology.
Addresses global challenges (e.g., health, environment).
Informs policy and decision-making.

Key Concepts

Theory: A well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world.
Law: A statement based on repeated experimental observations.
Peer Review: Evaluation of research by experts in the field.

Ethical Considerations

Integrity in research and reporting.
Respect for human and animal subjects.
Environmental responsibility.

Definition of Science

Science is a systematic enterprise dedicated to building and organizing knowledge.
It relies on observation, experimentation, and analysis to understand phenomena.

Branches of Science

Natural Sciences: Concentrate on the physical world. Key subdivisions include:
- Physics: Investigates matter, energy, and their interactions.
- Chemistry: Explores substances, their properties, and chemical reactions.
- Biology: Examines living organisms, their structures, functions, and interactions.
Formal Sciences: Focus on abstract concepts and include:
- Mathematics: Deals with numbers, quantities, shapes, and their relationships.
- Logic: Studies principles of valid reasoning and argumentation.
- Statistics: Involves the collection and analysis of quantitative data.
Social Sciences: Analyze human behavior and societal structures. Subdivisions include:
- Psychology: Focuses on mental processes and behavior.
- Sociology: Investigates social behavior, institutions, and relationships within society.
- Economics: Studies the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services.

Scientific Method

Observation: Involves collecting data using the senses.
Question: Deriving a precise question from observations.
Hypothesis: Formulating a testable and falsifiable explanation for the observed phenomena.
Experimentation: Implementing tests to assess the validity of the hypothesis.
Analysis: Interpreting collected data to draw insights.
Conclusion: Summarizing findings and determining the truth or falsity of the hypothesis based on analysis.

Importance of Science

Enhances understanding and drives technological advancements.
Provides insights to tackle global challenges like health crises and environmental issues.
Aids in informing policy-making and socio-political decision processes.

Key Concepts

Theory: A well-substantiated explanation that integrates numerous observations and experiments about aspects of the natural world.
Law: A statement that describes consistent observations in nature based on repeated experimental results.
Peer Review: A critical evaluation process where experts assess research quality, validity, and relevance prior to publication.

Ethical Considerations

Ensures integrity and honesty in research practices and reporting outcomes.
Emphasizes the importance of respecting human and animal subjects involved in research.
Stresses the need for environmental stewardship and responsible research conduct.

Description

Explore the fundamental definition of science and its various branches, including natural, formal, and social sciences. This quiz covers concepts like observation, experimentation, and the scientific method, providing insights into how knowledge is structured and understood in different fields.