Introduction to Science and Its Branches

Study Notes

Definition of Science

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

Branches of Science

Natural Sciences
- Study of natural phenomena.
- Includes physics, chemistry, biology, and earth sciences.
Formal Sciences
- Study of abstract concepts and logical systems.
- Includes mathematics, statistics, and computer science.
Social Sciences
- Study of human society and social relationships.
- Includes psychology, sociology, anthropology, and economics.

Scientific Method

Observation
- Gathering data through senses or instruments.
Hypothesis Formation
- Developing a testable prediction based on observations.
Experimentation
- Conducting experiments to test the hypothesis.
- Control variables to ensure reliable results.
Analysis
- Interpreting data and determining if it supports or refutes the hypothesis.
Conclusion
- Drawing conclusions based on data analysis.
- May lead to further hypotheses or theories.
Peer Review
- Evaluation of research by experts in the field before publication.

Importance of Science

Advances knowledge and technology.
Provides evidence-based solutions to problems.
Informs policy and decision-making.

Key Concepts in Science

Theory vs. Hypothesis
- Theory: well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world.
- Hypothesis: testable proposition or educated guess.
Law vs. Theory
- Law: statement based on repeated experimental observations (e.g., Newton's laws).
- Theory: broader explanation that can encompass multiple laws.
Repeatability & Reproducibility
- Repeatability: same experiment yields similar results by same investigator.
- Reproducibility: different investigators obtain similar results.

Ethical Considerations in Science

Integrity in research, data fabrication, and plagiarism.
Ethical treatment of human and animal subjects.
Responsibilities to society and the environment.

Current Trends in Science

Interdisciplinary research combining multiple fields.
Increased focus on sustainability and environmental science.
Advances in technology, such as artificial intelligence and biotechnology.

Definition of Science

A systematic enterprise that organizes knowledge through observation, experimentation, and theoretical explanation.

Branches of Science

Natural Sciences: Focus on studying natural phenomena, encompassing physics, chemistry, biology, and earth sciences.
Formal Sciences: Concern abstract concepts and logical systems, which include mathematics, statistics, and computer science.
Social Sciences: Examine human society and social relationships, covering fields like psychology, sociology, anthropology, and economics.

Scientific Method

Observation: Involves collecting data via sensory perception or instruments.
Hypothesis Formation: Creating a testable prediction based on observed data.
Experimentation: Conducting tests to validate the hypothesis while controlling variables for reliable results.
Analysis: Interpreting data to see if it supports or contradicts the hypothesis.
Conclusion: Drawing insights from the analysis, which may prompt new hypotheses or theories.
Peer Review: A process where research is critically evaluated by experts prior to publication.

Importance of Science

Drives advancements in knowledge and technology, offering evidence-based solutions for real-world issues.
Plays a crucial role in informing policy decisions and strategic planning.

Key Concepts in Science

Theory vs. Hypothesis: A theory is a well-substantiated explanation, while a hypothesis is a testable prediction.
Law vs. Theory: A law is a concise statement derived from repeated observations; a theory provides a broader explanation for various laws.
Repeatability & Reproducibility: Repeatability refers to obtaining consistent results by the same investigator; reproducibility involves multiple investigators achieving similar outcomes.

Ethical Considerations in Science

Emphasizes integrity in research, the avoidance of data fabrication, and preventing plagiarism.
Highlights the ethical treatment of human and animal subjects.
Stresses the responsibility of scientists towards society and environmental conservation.

Current Trends in Science

Promotes interdisciplinary research, merging insights from various scientific fields.
Places increased emphasis on sustainability and environmental science initiatives.
Witnesses significant advancements in technology, notably in artificial intelligence and biotechnology.

Description

Explore the fundamental concepts of science, including its definition, branches, and the scientific method. This quiz covers natural, formal, and social sciences, as well as the steps involved in scientific inquiry. Test your knowledge and understanding of how science builds systematic knowledge through observation and experimentation.