Introduction to Science Quiz

Definition of Science

• Systematic enterprise that builds and organizes knowledge.
• Uses experiments and observations to understand the natural world.

Branches of Science

1. Natural Sciences

   • Focus on the study of natural phenomena.
   • Examples: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Earth Sciences.

2. Social Sciences

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

3. Formal Sciences

   • Abstract concepts and logical reasoning.
   • Examples: Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science.

4. Applied Sciences

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

Scientific Method

1. Observation

   • Gathering information through senses or instruments.

2. Question

   • Identifying a problem or area of interest.

3. Hypothesis

   • Formulating a testable prediction based on observations.

4. Experimentation

   • Conducting experiments to test the hypothesis.

5. Analysis

   • Interpreting data and results from experiments.

6. Conclusion

   • Drawing conclusions based on experimental findings.

7. Communication

   • Sharing results with the scientific community for validation.

Key Concepts

• Theory vs. Law

  • Theory: Well-substantiated explanation of an aspect of the natural world.
  • Law: Statement based on repeated experimental observations, describing a universal principle.

• Variables

  • Independent Variable: Manipulated or changed.
  • Dependent Variable: Measured response to the independent variable.
  • Control Variables: Held constant to ensure valid results.

• Peer Review

  • Process of evaluation by experts in the field before publication.

Importance of Science

• Advances knowledge and technology.
• Improves quality of life through medical and technological innovation.
• Informs policy decisions and public health.
• Encourages critical thinking and skepticism.

Ethical Considerations

• Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR).
• Importance of integrity, honesty, and accountability in scientific work.
• Consideration of the societal impact of scientific research.

Definition of Science

• Systematic process that organizes and builds knowledge.
• Relies on experimentation and observation to comprehend the natural world.

Branches of Science

• Natural Sciences
  • Studies natural phenomena.
  • Includes disciplines like Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Earth Sciences.
• Social Sciences
  • Examines human behavior and societal structures.
  • Encompasses fields such as Psychology, Sociology, Economics, and Anthropology.
• Formal Sciences
  • Involves abstract concepts and logical reasoning.
  • Comprises Mathematics, Statistics, and Computer Science.
• Applied Sciences
  • Focuses on practical application of scientific knowledge.
  • Includes Engineering, Medicine, and Environmental Science.

Scientific Method

• Observation
  • Involves gathering information using senses or tools.
• Question
  • Identifies a problem or an area of interest to explore.
• Hypothesis
  • A testable prediction derived from observations.
• Experimentation
  • Conducts experiments to examine the validity of the hypothesis.
• Analysis
  • Involves interpreting data obtained from experiments.
• Conclusion
  • Draws conclusions based on experimental results.
• Communication
  • Shares findings with the scientific community for validation and peer review.

Key Concepts

• Theory vs. Law
  • Theory: A comprehensive explanation of a natural phenomenon supported by evidence.
  • Law: A statement describing a universal principle based on repeated observations.
• Variables
  • Independent Variable: The factor manipulated in an experiment.
  • Dependent Variable: The measured response influenced by the independent variable.
  • Control Variables: Factors kept constant to ensure the experiment's validity.
• Peer Review
  • Evaluation process by experts prior to publication to ensure research quality and credibility.

Importance of Science

• Drives advancements in knowledge and technology.
• Enhances quality of life through innovation in medicine and technology.
• Shapes policy decisions and public health strategies.
• Promotes critical thinking and skepticism towards information.

Ethical Considerations

• Emphasizes Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR).
• Highlights the significance of integrity, honesty, and accountability in scientific endeavors.
• Considers the societal implications of scientific research.

Test your knowledge on the fundamental concepts of science, including its definitions, branches, and the scientific method. This quiz covers natural, social, formal, and applied sciences, along with the steps involved in scientific investigation.