Introduction to Science

Study Notes

Definition of Science

Systematic study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world.
Involves observation, experimentation, and theorization.

Branches of Science

Natural Sciences
- Focus on the natural world.
- Includes Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Earth Science.
Formal Sciences
- Study abstract concepts.
- Includes Mathematics, Logic, Statistics.
Social Sciences
- Study human behavior and societies.
- Includes Psychology, Sociology, Anthropology, Economics.
Applied Sciences
- Practical application of scientific knowledge.
- Includes Engineering, Medicine, Environmental Science.

Scientific Method

Observation
- Gathering data and noticing phenomena.
Hypothesis Formation
- Proposing explanations based on observations.
Experimentation
- Testing hypotheses through controlled experiments.
Analysis
- Interpreting data and results.
Conclusion
- Drawing conclusions based on analysis; may support or refute the hypothesis.
Peer Review
- Subjecting research to the evaluation of other experts in the field.

Key Concepts

Theory vs. Law
- Theory: Explanation of phenomena based on extensive evidence (e.g., Theory of Evolution).
- Law: Statement based on repeated experimental observations (e.g., Laws of Motion).
Variables in Experiments
- Independent Variable: The factor manipulated by the researcher.
- Dependent Variable: The factor measured in response to changes in the independent variable.
- Control Variables: Factors kept constant to ensure a fair test.

Importance of Science

Drives technological advancement and innovation.
Informs public policy and decision-making.
Enhances understanding of the universe and human existence.

Ethical Considerations

Importance of ethical conduct in research (e.g., informed consent, animal welfare).
The impact of scientific advancements on society and the environment.

Definition of Science

Science is the systematic study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world.
It involves techniques such as observation, experimentation, and theorization.

Branches of Science

Natural Sciences: Concerned with understanding the natural world and includes disciplines like Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Earth Science.
Formal Sciences: Focus on abstract concepts and include Mathematics, Logic, and Statistics.
Social Sciences: Study of human behavior and societies, encompassing fields such as Psychology, Sociology, Anthropology, and Economics.
Applied Sciences: Focus on the practical application of scientific knowledge, including areas like Engineering, Medicine, and Environmental Science.

Scientific Method

Observation: Involves gathering data and noticing phenomena in a structured manner.
Hypothesis Formation: Proposes explanations based on initial observations.
Experimentation: Conducts controlled experiments to test the validity of hypotheses.
Analysis: Involves interpreting data collected from experiments to draw meaningful results.
Conclusion: Conclusion drawn can support or refute the original hypothesis based on the analysis.
Peer Review: Essential for maintaining scientific integrity by subjecting research to evaluation by experts in the field.

Key Concepts

Theory vs. Law:
- A theory is an explanatory framework built on extensive evidence (e.g., Theory of Evolution).
- A law is a statement derived from repeated experimental observations (e.g., Laws of Motion).
Variables in Experiments:
- Independent Variable: The manipulated factor by the researcher.
- Dependent Variable: The measured factor that responds to changes in the independent variable.
- Control Variables: Constants maintained to ensure the experiment is fair and valid.

Importance of Science

Science serves as a driving force for technological advancement and innovation.
It informs public policy decisions and enhances knowledge of the universe and human existence.

Ethical Considerations

Ethical conduct in research is critical, encompassing aspects such as informed consent and animal welfare.
Scientific advancements have significant implications for society and the environment, necessitating careful consideration of their impact.

Description

This quiz explores the fundamental definitions and branches of science, including natural, formal, and social sciences. Test your knowledge on the systematic study of the physical and natural world, and understand how different scientific disciplines contribute to our understanding of nature and society.