Scientific Method and Branches of Science

Scientific Method

• Science is a systematic approach to understanding the natural world.
• It involves observation, experimentation, and the formulation and testing of hypotheses.
• The scientific method is a cyclical process.
• Formulating testable questions about observed phenomena.
• Developing hypotheses that can explain the phenomena.
• Designing controlled experiments to test the hypotheses.
• Collecting and analyzing data from experiments.
• Drawing conclusions based on the data.
• Communicating the results for peer review and further investigation.

Branches of Science

• Science is broadly categorized into several branches.
• Natural Sciences study the natural world.
• Physical Sciences deal with non-living matter.
  • Examples include: Physics, Chemistry, and Astronomy.
• Life Sciences deal with living organisms.
  • Examples include: Biology, Zoology, Botany, and Ecology.
• Earth Sciences deal with the Earth.
  • Examples include: Geology, Meteorology, and Oceanography.
• Social Sciences study human society and behavior.
  • Examples include: Psychology, Sociology, and Economics.

Scientific Principles

• The universe is understandable.
• Natural laws are uniform in space and time.
• Scientific ideas are subject to change as new evidence emerges.
• Science is a human endeavor, and is affected by human biases.
• Scientific explanations are based on evidence.
• Science cannot provide answers to all questions. Some questions are beyond the realm of science (e.g., questions of morality, ethics).

Scientific Investigations

• Observation is crucial in science.
• Observation of phenomena can lead to questions and hypotheses.
• A hypothesis is a testable explanation for a phenomenon.
• A control group is used as a basis for comparison with the experimental group.
• Variables are factors that can be changed during an experiment.
  • Independent variables are manipulated.
  • Dependent variables are measured as a result.
• Controlled experiments help isolate the effects of specific variables.
• Data are collected and analyzed to determine if the hypothesis is supported or refuted.
• Data can be represented using tables, graphs, or charts.
• Scientific reports describe and explain the results.

Scientific Theories and Laws

• A scientific theory is a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world, based on a body of facts that have been repeatedly confirmed through observation and experiment.
• Theories are supported by a large body of evidence and are more comprehensive than hypotheses.
• Scientific laws describe observed patterns in nature. Laws are concise statements that summarize observed regularities in natural phenomena. They are typically expressed as mathematical equations.