Introduction to Science Concepts

Natural Sciences
- Biology: Study of living organisms.
- Chemistry: Study of matter and its interactions.
- Physics: Study of matter, energy, and forces.
- Earth Science: Study of Earth systems (geology, meteorology).
Formal Sciences
- Mathematics: Abstract study of numbers and structures.
- Logic: Study of reasoning and argumentation.
Social Sciences
- Psychology: Study of behavior and mental processes.
- Sociology: Study of society and social behavior.
- Anthropology: Study of humans and cultures.

Theory vs. Law
- Theory: Well-substantiated explanation of aspects of the natural world.
- Law: A statement that describes an observable occurrence in nature.
Variables in Experiments
- Independent Variable: Manipulated variable.
- Dependent Variable: Measured outcome.
- Control Variables: Constant factors throughout the experiment.
Peer Review
- Process of evaluating research by experts in the field before publication.

Natural Sciences study the physical world and its phenomena.
- Biology focuses on living organisms and their interactions.
- Chemistry investigates matter and its properties, including how substances change.
- Physics explores the fundamental constituents of the universe, their properties, and interactions.
- Earth Science encompasses the study of Earth's systems, including geology, meteorology, and oceanography.
Formal Sciences deal with abstract concepts and systems.
- Mathematics is the study of numbers, patterns, and structures using logical reasoning.
- Logic focuses on the principles of valid reasoning and argumentation.
Social Sciences examine human behavior and societies.
- Psychology explores the mind and behavior, including thoughts, emotions, and motivations.
- Sociology analyzes social interactions, structures, and institutions.
- Anthropology studies the origins, development, and diversity of human cultures and societies.

The Scientific Method is a systematic approach to understanding the natural world.
Begins with observation, identifying a phenomenon or problem.
Formulates a question based on the observation.
Develops a testable prediction called a hypothesis.
Conducts experiments to test the hypothesis.
Analyzes the data and results from the experiments.
Draws conclusions about the hypothesis based on the analysis.
Shares findings with the scientific community.

Theory vs. Law
- A theory is a well-substantiated explanation of aspects of the natural world, backed by extensive evidence and supported by multiple lines of investigation.
- A law is a concise statement that describes an observable occurrence in nature, often expressed mathematically, but does not explain why this occurrence happens.
Variables in Experiments
- The independent variable is the factor that is manipulated or changed by the researcher.
- The dependent variable is the factor that is measured or observed as a result of changes in the independent variable.
- Control variables are factors that are kept constant throughout the experiment to ensure that any observed effects are due to the independent variable.
Peer Review
- A crucial component of the scientific process where research is evaluated by experts in the field before publication.
- This process helps ensure the quality, validity, and rigor of scientific research.

Contributes to advancements in technology and medicine.
Informs policy decisions on issues like climate change, public health, and environmental management.
Enhances our understanding of natural phenomena, from the smallest particles to the vast universe.

Maintains integrity in research practices, ensuring honesty and transparency.
Promotes responsible conduct in scientific studies, adhering to ethical guidelines and minimizing potential harm.
Considers the societal impacts of scientific discoveries, weighing potential benefits against risks.