Science Overview and The Scientific Method

Study Notes

Science Overview

Science is a systematic approach to understanding and exploring the natural world through observation, experimentation, and testing of ideas. It involves making predictions based on evidence from observations, conducting controlled experiments to test these predictions, and refining our understanding of how things work over time.

The Scientific Method

The core process behind science is called the scientific method, which consists of five key steps:

Observing: First, scientists observe something interesting in nature. This could be anything from a new species of insect to a star going supernova.
Hypothesis: Next, they formulate a hypothesis—an educated guess about what might explain this phenomenon. For example, if you see stars changing color, one possible explanation is that it's because they're burning different fuels at various stages of their lives.
Testing: To check whether your idea holds water, you need to run tests—experiments designed specifically to gather relevant data and eliminate alternative explanations. In this case, astronomers would look for other changes associated with color change such as brightness or position relative to other celestial bodies.
Analyzing Data: Once all results have been collected, researchers analyze them carefully using statistical methods to determine whether there really was any difference. If so, did it support their original theory? Or does more investigation seem warranted?
Drawing Conclusions: Finally, scientists decide whether their hypothesis has been confirmed by enough supporting evidence or rejected due lack of convincing proof. No matter which outcome occurs though; further questions inevitably arise leading onto yet another cycle of exploration!

Types of Science

Science can be divided into several branches depending upon subject matters:

Physical Sciences: These involve studying physical phenomena occurring outside living organisms including astronomy, biology, geography etc., governed by well defined laws like gravity, magnetism and electric charge.
Natural Sciences: Also known as life sciences deal primarily with biological entities such as plants, animals, microorganisms etc. Examples include botany, zoology, genetics etc..
Applied Sciences: Focuses on applying knowledge from basic or pure science towards technological development aimed at solving practical problems encountered during day-to-day life.
Mathematical Sciences: Deals mainly with mathematical concepts. Applications range across diverse fields – physics, chemistry, economics, engineering and many others.

Each branch within science provides unique insights into understanding reality around us while contributing significantly towards human progress.

Description

Learn about science as a systematic approach to understanding the natural world through observation, experimentation, and testing of ideas. Explore the core process of science, known as the scientific method, which consists of observing, formulating a hypothesis, testing, analyzing data, and drawing conclusions.