Science and Technology Overview

Study Notes

Science and Technology

Science originates from the Latin word "scientia", meaning knowledge.
Science is the systematic acquisition of knowledge through the scientific method.
Technology originates from the Greek words "techne" (skill, art, craftsmanship) and "logos" (discourse, reason).
Technology applies scientific knowledge practically.

The Scientific Method

The scientific method involves six steps:
- Identifying the problem
- Gathering background information
- Forming a hypothesis
- Performing tests and collecting data
- Drawing a conclusion
- Reporting the results

History of Science and Technology

Antiquity to 20th Century:
- Early scientific questions were answered by religious authorities in ancient times.
- Egyptians developed mathematics, while Babylonians used it for astronomy.
- Ancient Greece saw the rise of systematic science:
  - Thales predicted eclipses.
  - Anaximander proposed human evolution from lower life forms.
  - Pythagoras applied mathematics to nature.
  - Empedocles theorized the four elements: fire, air, water, earth.
  - Democritus proposed that matter is composed of atoms.
  - Eratosthenes measured the Earth's size and created the first world map.
  - Ancient Greek chemistry recognized five elements: earth, air, fire, water, and aether.
  - Hippocrates and Galen advanced medicine through records and experiments.
Middle Ages:
- Scientific progress slowed after the fall of the Roman Empire.
- St. Thomas Aquinas advocated knowing God through nature.
Renaissance and Scientific Revolution:
- Francis Bacon introduced the scientific method.
- Nicolaus Copernicus proposed the heliocentric theory (Sun-centered universe).
- Galileo Galilei confirmed Copernicus' ideas using improved telescopes.
The Age of Enlightenment:
- Witnessing a flourishing of scientific thought, notable figures include:
  - Isaac Newton developed calculus and studied alchemy.
  - Carl Linnaeus established biological taxonomy.
  - Charles Darwin proposed evolution by natural selection.
  - Sigmund Freud developed psychoanalysis (id, ego, superego).
The Information Revolution:
- Revolutionized human interaction through advancements in writing, printing, and technology.

Civilizations and Their Contributions

Mesoamerica:
- Mayans: Predicted eclipses and developed complex calendars.
- Incas: Constructed roads, irrigation systems, and the first suspension bridge, utilizing quipu for record-keeping.
- Aztecs: Implemented mandatory education and cultivated chocolate.
Asia:
- India: Developed Ayurveda and advanced surgical techniques.
- Aryabhata made contributions to trigonometry.
- Brahmagupta introduced zero and explained gravity.
- Indonesia: Constructed religious Candi structures.
- Japan: Practiced Kampo (traditional medicine).
- China: Invented the iron plow, wheelbarrow, and seismological detector.
Middle East and Africa:
- Ibn al-Haytham: Known as the "Father of Optics".
- Al-Khwarizmi: Considered the "Father of Algorithms", coining the term "algebra".
- Jabir ibn Hayyan: Recognized as the "Father of Chemistry."
- Ibn Sina (Avicenna): Pioneered experimental medicine, authoring "The Canon of Medicine."
- Lebombo Bone: Oldest mathematical artifact (believed to function as a calendar or calculation tool).
- Egypt: Advanced alchemy, pharmacology, and medical diagnosis.

Description

This quiz explores the foundations of science and technology, tracing their historical development from antiquity to the 20th century. Moreover, it delves into the scientific method, emphasizing its critical steps in knowledge acquisition. Test your understanding of these essential concepts in science and technology.