Introduction to Science Concepts

Definition of Science

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

Branches of Science

1. Natural Sciences

   • Study of natural phenomena.
   • Includes:
     • Physics: Study of matter and energy.
     • Chemistry: Study of substances and their interactions.
     • Biology: Study of living organisms.

2. Social Sciences

   • Study of human behavior and societies.
   • Includes:
     • Psychology: Study of mind and behavior.
     • Sociology: Study of social behavior and structures.
     • Economics: Study of production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services.

3. Formal Sciences

   • Study of abstract concepts and structures.
   • Includes:
     • Mathematics: Study of numbers, shapes, and patterns.
     • Logic: Study of reasoning and argument.

4. Applied Sciences

   • Practical application of scientific knowledge to solve real-world problems.
   • Includes:
     • Engineering: Application of scientific principles for design and construction.
     • Medicine: Application of biology and chemistry for health care.

Scientific Method

1. Observation: Gathering data and noticing phenomena.
2. Question: Formulating questions based on observations.
3. Hypothesis: Proposing a testable explanation.
4. Experiment: Conducting tests to support or refute the hypothesis.
5. Analysis: Interpreting data and drawing conclusions.
6. Communication: Sharing results with the scientific community.

Key Concepts

• Theory: Well-substantiated explanation based on a body of evidence (e.g., theory of evolution).
• Law: Statement based on repeated experimental observations that describe an aspect of the universe (e.g., Newton's laws of motion).
• Variable: Any factor, trait, or condition that can exist in differing amounts or types (independent, dependent, and controlled variables).

Importance of Science

• Advances understanding of the universe and our place in it.
• Drives technological innovation and improvements in quality of life.
• Informs public policy and contributes to societal progress.
• Encourages critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Definition of Science

• Science is a systematic approach for building and organizing knowledge through testable explanations and predictions about the universe.

Branches of Science

• Natural Sciences: Focus on natural phenomena.

  • Physics: Examines matter and energy.
  • Chemistry: Investigates substances and their interactions.
  • Biology: Studies living organisms and their life processes.

• Social Sciences: Analyze human behavior and societal structures.

  • Psychology: Explores mind and behavior.
  • Sociology: Studies social behavior and community structures.
  • Economics: Looks into the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services.

• Formal Sciences: Concerned with abstract concepts.

  • Mathematics: Involves the study of numbers, shapes, and their relationships.
  • Logic: Focuses on principles of reasoning and argumentation.

• Applied Sciences: Utilize scientific knowledge for practical applications.

  • Engineering: Involves design and construction based on scientific principles.
  • Medicine: Applies biology and chemistry to healthcare and treatments.

Scientific Method

• Observation: Involves gathering data and noting phenomena.
• Question: Formulating inquiries based on observations made.
• Hypothesis: Proposing a testable explanation for the observations.
• Experiment: Carrying out tests to validate or dispute the hypothesis.
• Analysis: Interpreting the data and formulating conclusions.
• Communication: Sharing findings with the broader scientific community.

Key Concepts

• Theory: A thoroughly supported explanation based on extensive evidence, such as the theory of evolution.
• Law: A consistent statement derived from repeated experimental observations, like Newton's laws of motion.
• Variable: A factor that can vary in different scenarios, categorized as independent, dependent, or controlled variables.

Importance of Science

• Enhances understanding of the universe and human existence within it.
• Fuels technological advancements and contributes to improved quality of life.
• Informs public policy and fosters societal development.
• Cultivates critical thinking and effective problem-solving abilities.