Introduction to Science

Study Notes

Definition of Science

Systematic enterprise that builds and organizes knowledge through testable explanations and predictions about the universe.

Branches of Science

Natural Sciences
- Focus on the physical world.
- Examples: Physics, Chemistry, Biology.
Social Sciences
- Study human behavior and societies.
- Examples: Psychology, Sociology, Economics.
Formal Sciences
- Concerned with abstract concepts.
- Examples: Mathematics, Logic, Statistics.
Applied Sciences
- Use scientific knowledge for practical applications.
- Examples: Engineering, Medicine, Environmental Science.

Scientific Method

Observation
- Gather information through the senses.
Hypothesis
- Formulate a testable prediction.
Experimentation
- Design and conduct experiments to test the hypothesis.
Data Collection
- Record observations and results.
Analysis
- Interpret the data to determine whether it supports the hypothesis.
Conclusion
- Draw conclusions and report findings; may lead to further research.

Key Concepts

Theory vs. Law
- Theory: Well-tested explanation of phenomena (e.g., Theory of Evolution).
- Law: Statement based on repeated experimental observations (e.g., Newton’s Laws of Motion).
Variable Types
- Independent Variable: Changed or controlled in an experiment.
- Dependent Variable: Measured outcome affected by the independent variable.
- Control Variable: Kept constant to ensure a fair test.
Scientific Notation
- Method of expressing large or small numbers (e.g., 3.0 × 10^8).

Importance of Science

Advances technology and medicine.
Enhances understanding of the universe and our place in it.
Informs public policy and education.
Promotes critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Definition of Science

Systematic process for accumulating and organizing knowledge about the universe through testable explanations and predictions.

Branches of Science

Natural Sciences
- Examine the physical world.
- Includes disciplines such as Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
Social Sciences
- Investigate human behavior and societal structures.
- Encompasses fields like Psychology, Sociology, and Economics.
Formal Sciences
- Focus on abstract concepts and theoretical constructs.
- Includes areas like Mathematics, Logic, and Statistics.
Applied Sciences
- Utilize scientific knowledge for practical applications in real-world scenarios.
- Examples include Engineering, Medicine, and Environmental Science.

Scientific Method

Observation
- Involves collecting information using the five senses.
Hypothesis
- A testable prediction that provides a basis for experimentation.
Experimentation
- The process of designing and conducting tests to evaluate the hypothesis.
Data Collection
- Recording of observations and experimental results systematically.
Analysis
- Interpretation of data to assess alignment with the hypothesis.
Conclusion
- Summarization of findings which may suggest further research or modifications to the hypothesis.

Key Concepts

Theory vs. Law
- Theory: A well-substantiated explanation for phenomena grounded in evidence (example includes the Theory of Evolution).
- Law: A general statement based on consistent experimental observations (such as Newton’s Laws of Motion).
Variable Types
- Independent Variable: The factor manipulated in an experiment.
- Dependent Variable: The measured outcome influenced by changes to the independent variable.
- Control Variable: Elements that are kept constant throughout the experiment to ensure fairness.
Scientific Notation
- A standardized method for expressing very large or very small numbers, facilitating easier reading and calculations (e.g., 3.0 × 10^8).

Importance of Science

Drives advancements in technology and medicine, improving quality of life.
Deepens comprehension of the universe and humanity’s role within it.
Influences public policy and supports informed decision-making.
Fosters critical thinking and enhances problem-solving capabilities.

Description

Explore the fundamental concepts of science, including its definition and its various branches such as natural, social, and formal sciences. This quiz will test your understanding of how science organizes knowledge and the different disciplines it encompasses.