Introduction to Science

Study Notes

Topic Subtitle

Science is a systematic process for building and organizing knowledge about the universe.
It uses testable explanations and predictions to understand the natural world.
Observation, experimentation, and the development of testable hypotheses are crucial aspects of this process.

Branches of Science

Physical Science: Examines matter, energy, and governing forces (physics, chemistry, astronomy).
Biological Science: Focuses on life and living organisms (biology, genetics, ecology).
Earth Science: Studies Earth's composition, structure, processes, and history (geology, meteorology, oceanography).

Scientific Method

A systematic way to gain knowledge.
Observation: Identifying a phenomenon.
Questioning: Formulating a specific question about the observation.
Hypothesis: A tentative explanation or prediction.
Experimentation: Testing the hypothesis through controlled experiments.
Data Analysis: Evaluating experimental results to see if the hypothesis is supported or refuted.
Conclusion: Drawing a conclusion based on the results and evaluating whether the hypothesis is acceptable.

Scientific Laws and Theories

Scientific laws: Concise descriptions of patterns in nature (e.g., Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation).
Scientific theories: Well-supported explanations of natural phenomena based on ample evidence (e.g., theory of evolution, theory of plate tectonics).
Theories are not static; they are refined and updated as new evidence emerges.

Characteristics of Science

Objectivity: Scientists aim to be unbiased in their work.
Repeatability: Experiments and observations should be reproducible by others to strengthen validity.
Falsifiability: A hypothesis or theory must be capable of being proven wrong through evidence.
Skepticism: Scientists critically evaluate evidence to avoid bias.
Peer Review: Scientists share their work with peers who assess its validity and accuracy.

Limitations of Science

Testability: Science focuses on observable and measurable phenomena.
Natural Explanations: Science uses natural explanations to explain natural occurrences.
Incomplete Knowledge: Scientific understanding is constantly evolving.

Scientific Research Skills

Critical Thinking: Evaluating information, identifying biases, and forming rational judgements.
Data Analysis: Organizing, interpreting, and applying quantitative and qualitative data.
Problem Solving: Applying systematic methods to address questions.

Description

This quiz covers the fundamental concepts of science, including its definition, branches, and the scientific method. Understand how different fields like physical, biological, and earth sciences contribute to our knowledge of the universe.