Science and Society Module 2

Module Two: The Impact of Science on Society

• This module examines how science impacts society, specifically focusing on energy production/use, health/disease, information technology, and biological/biotechnological research.
• Activities depend on energy, either directly or indirectly.
• Essential industries in the Caribbean rely heavily on energy.
• High energy costs impact the economy of the Caribbean.
• The impact of energy-based activities on the physical environment is a concern.
• Providing a healthy population is a fundamental requirement for the productivity and well-being of any society.

Module 2, Unit 1: Basic Scientific Concepts

• Matter is composed of particles (atoms, molecules, or ions).
• The atom is the fundamental unit of matter, containing protons, neutrons, and electrons.
• Protons and neutrons are in the nucleus, with electrons orbiting around it.
• Atoms combine to form molecules through bonds.
• Different compounds have different arrangement and numbers of atoms and bonds.
• Nuclear energy is produced by the splitting or combining of atoms in the nucleus.
• Energy can be converted from one form to another.

Module 2, Unit 2: Energy Production and Use

• Energy is the ability to do work and exists in various forms (kinetic, potential, thermal, nuclear).
• Kinetic energy is associated with motion.
• Potential energy is stored energy due to position or structure.
• Thermal energy is associated with temperature.
• Nuclear energy is released from changes in the nucleus of an atom.
• Fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) are non-renewable energy sources.
• Coal and petroleum (oil) are obtained from decomposed organic matter.
• Fossil fuels are vital in energy production but their use has environmental impacts.
• Renewable energy sources (solar, wind, geothermal) are environmentally friendly and potentially sustainable.

Module 2, Structure

• The module is divided into six units.
• Units cover basic scientific concepts, energy production/use, health and disease in the Caribbean, biotechnology, information technology, some ethical/gender issues.

Module 2, Objectives

• Examine the role of energy availability and use, health/nutrition status, and biotechnological advances in societal development.
• Evaluate the impact of information and communication technologies on society.
• Discuss current controversies in science, medicine, and technology from a Caribbean perspective.
• Comment on Caribbean contributions to science, medicine, and technology, along with gender-related issues.
• Examine ethical considerations in present-day scientific and technological activities.

This quiz explores the impact of science on society, focusing on areas such as energy production and health. It highlights the role of scientific concepts in understanding matter and its components. Additionally, it examines the implications of energy-based activities on the environment and economy, particularly in the Caribbean.