Introduction to Science Fundamentals

Definition of Science

• Systematic enterprise that builds and organizes knowledge.
• Involves observation, experimentation, and the formulation of theories.

Branches of Science

1. Natural Sciences

   • Study of natural phenomena.
   • Subfields: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Earth Science.

2. Formal Sciences

   • Study of abstract concepts and systems.
   • Subfields: Mathematics, Logic, Computer Science.

3. Social Sciences

   • Study of societies and human behavior.
   • Subfields: Psychology, Sociology, Economics, Anthropology.

4. Applied Sciences

   • Practical application of scientific knowledge.
   • Subfields: Engineering, Medicine, Environmental Science.

Scientific Method

1. Observation

   • Identifying a phenomenon or question.

2. Hypothesis

   • Formulating a testable explanation.

3. Experimentation

   • Conducting controlled tests to gather data.

4. Analysis

   • Interpreting results to determine if they support the hypothesis.

5. Conclusion

   • Drawing inferences; may lead to further questions or refined hypotheses.

6. Peer Review

   • Sharing findings with the scientific community for validation.

Key Concepts

• Theory vs. Law

  • Theory: Well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world.
  • Law: Statement based on repeated experimental observations that describe an aspect of the world.

• Variables

  • Independent Variable: The factor manipulated in an experiment.
  • Dependent Variable: The factor measured or observed.

• Control Group

  • A group that does not receive the experimental treatment, serving as a benchmark.

Importance of Science

• Advances knowledge and understanding of the universe.
• Drives technological innovation and development.
• Informs policy and ethical decision-making.
• Promotes critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Definition of Science

• Systematic enterprise focused on building and organizing knowledge.
• Involves observation, experimentation, and the development of theories.

Branches of Science

• Natural Sciences: Examines natural phenomena; includes physics, chemistry, biology, and Earth science.
• Formal Sciences: Investigates abstract concepts and systems; encompasses mathematics, logic, and computer science.
• Social Sciences: Studies human behavior and societies; features psychology, sociology, economics, and anthropology.
• Applied Sciences: Utilizes scientific knowledge for practical applications; includes engineering, medicine, and environmental science.

Scientific Method

• Observation: Recognizing phenomena or posing questions.
• Hypothesis: Crafting a testable explanation based on initial observations.
• Experimentation: Conducting controlled tests to collect empirical data.
• Analysis: Evaluating results to ascertain support for the hypothesis.
• Conclusion: Making inferences which may prompt additional inquiries or refined hypotheses.
• Peer Review: Sharing research findings with the scientific community for feedback and validation.

Key Concepts

• Theory vs. Law:
  • Theory: A thoroughly backed explanation of a natural phenomenon.
  • Law: A general statement derived from consistent experimental observations describing a natural aspect.
• Variables:
  • Independent Variable: The manipulated element during experimentation.
  • Dependent Variable: The measured outcome influenced by the independent variable.
• Control Group: A baseline group in an experiment that does not receive the treatment, providing a point of comparison.

Importance of Science

• Enhances understanding of the universe and its functioning.
• Fuels technological innovation and advancements.
• Guides policy formulation and ethical considerations.
• Encourages critical thinking and enhances problem-solving abilities.

Explore the definition, branches, and methodologies of science in this comprehensive quiz. Delve into natural, formal, social, and applied sciences, and understand the scientific method including observation, hypothesis formation, experimentation, and analysis. Challenge your knowledge and learn about the systematic approach to acquiring scientific knowledge.