Understanding Scientific Method

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Questions and Answers

What is the first step in the scientific method?

  • Making observations. (correct)
  • Conducting experiments.
  • Formulating a hypothesis.
  • Analyzing data.

Which branch of science deals with the study of living organisms?

  • Geology
  • Physics
  • Chemistry
  • Biology (correct)

What is a testable explanation for an observed phenomenon?

  • Theory
  • Conclusion
  • Observation
  • Hypothesis (correct)

Which of the following is a natural science?

<p>Physics (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the study of the Earth's atmosphere and weather patterns called?

<p>Meteorology (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which science studies matter and its properties?

<p>Chemistry (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a statement based on repeated experimental observations that describes some aspect of the universe?

<p>Law (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is studied within the realm of biology?

<p>Cells (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the study of matter, energy, and their interactions?

<p>Physics (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which field of Earth Science studies the oceans?

<p>Oceanography (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

What is Science?

A systematic approach to understanding the natural world through observation, experimentation, and analysis.

What is the scientific method?

The process scientists use to investigate phenomena, acquire new knowledge, or correct previous knowledge.

What is a Hypothesis?

A testable explanation for an observed phenomenon.

What is Physics?

The study of matter, energy, and their interactions.

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What is Chemistry?

The study of matter and its properties and how matter changes.

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What is Biology?

The study of living organisms, including their structure, function, growth, evolution, and distribution.

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What is Earth Science?

The study of the Earth and its processes, including geology, meteorology, oceanography, and astronomy.

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What is a scientific theory?

A well-substantiated explanation incorporating facts, laws, inferences, and tested hypotheses about the natural world.

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What is a Scientific Law?

A statement based on repeated observations that describes some aspect of the universe, often as a mathematical equation.

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What is Astronomy?

Study of celestial objects and phenomena.

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Study Notes

  • Science employs a systematic and organized methodology to comprehend the natural world through observation, experimentation, and analysis.
  • It requires the formulation of hypotheses, their validation through experiments, and the development of theories that elucidate and forecast natural phenomena.
  • Science is empirical, hinging on evidence and data acquired through observations and experiments.
  • Scientific knowledge is in constant flux, evolving as new evidence surfaces and fresh theories are proposed.
  • Science is an expansive field encompassing various disciplines, including physics, chemistry, biology, and astronomy.
  • Scientific inquiry necessitates critical thinking, curiosity, skepticism, and an openness to adapting explanations in light of new evidence.
  • Science seeks to provide explanations for the workings of the world grounded in evidence and rational analysis.
  • The scientific method serves as a process employed by scientists to probe phenomena, gain new insights, or rectify and synthesize existing knowledge.

Scientific Method

  • The scientific method commonly involves observation, hypothesis formulation, experiment design and execution, data analysis, and conclusion derivation.
  • Observations mark the initial step in the scientific method, wherein scientists identify patterns or phenomena in the natural world.
  • A hypothesis constitutes a testable explanation for an observed phenomenon.
  • Experiments are devised to assess hypotheses via the manipulation of variables and measurement of outcomes.
  • Data analysis entails employing statistical techniques to interpret experimental results.
  • Conclusions are formulated based on the evidence gathered from experiments and data analysis.
  • Hypotheses supported by evidence may be accepted as valid explanations.
  • Contradictory evidence may lead to hypothesis revision or rejection.

Branches of Science

  • Natural sciences explore the physical world, encompassing biology, chemistry, physics, and earth science.
  • Social sciences examine human behavior and societies, including psychology, sociology, economics, and political science.
  • Formal sciences utilize formal systems to generate knowledge, including logic, mathematics, and computer science.
  • Applied sciences implement scientific knowledge to address practical issues, including engineering, medicine, and agriculture.

Physics

  • Physics delves into matter, energy, and their interactions.
  • Classical mechanics addresses the motion of macroscopic objects.
  • Thermodynamics concerns heat, work, and energy transfer.
  • Electromagnetism studies electric and magnetic forces and fields.
  • Quantum mechanics investigates the behavior of matter at the atomic and subatomic scales.
  • Relativity explores the interrelation of space, time, gravity, and motion.

Chemistry

  • Chemistry focuses on matter and its properties, along with its transformations.
  • Atoms represent the fundamental constituents of matter.
  • Molecules arise from the bonding of two or more atoms.
  • Chemical reactions entail the rearrangement of atoms and molecules.
  • Organic chemistry specializes in carbon-containing compounds.
  • Inorganic chemistry deals with compounds lacking carbon.
  • Biochemistry explores the chemistry of living organisms.

Biology

  • Biology examines living organisms, encompassing their structure, function, growth, evolution, and distribution.
  • Cells constitute the basic units of life.
  • Genetics studies heredity and variation in organisms.
  • Evolution denotes the process of population change in organisms over time.
  • Ecology investigates the interactions between organisms and their environment.
  • Botany focuses on plants.
  • Zoology studies animals.

Earth Science

  • Earth science investigates the Earth and its processes, including geology, meteorology, oceanography, and astronomy.
  • Geology studies the Earth's physical structure and substance, its history, and the processes acting upon it.
  • Meteorology examines the atmosphere and weather patterns.
  • Oceanography studies the oceans.
  • Astronomy studies celestial objects and phenomena.

Scientific Theories

  • A scientific theory presents a well-supported explanation of a natural world aspect, integrating facts, laws, inferences, and tested hypotheses.
  • Theories possess broader scope than hypotheses and are substantiated by substantial evidence.
  • Theories are not mere guesses but are founded on empirical evidence and rigorous testing.
  • Scientific theories are subject to revision or rejection if contradicted by new evidence.
  • Established theories include the theory of evolution, the theory of relativity, and the atomic theory.

Scientific Laws

  • A scientific law constitutes a statement, based on repeated experimental observations, that describes a universe aspect.
  • Laws typically manifest as mathematical equations or statements articulating variable relationships.
  • Laws are generally deemed universal and invariable under specified conditions.
  • Laws diverge from scientific theories, which offer broader explanations that frame the understanding of phenomena.
  • Scientific laws encompass the law of gravity, the laws of thermodynamics, and the laws of motion.

Importance of Science

  • Science is vital for advancing human knowledge and understanding of the natural world.
  • Scientific discoveries have spurred technological advancements transforming society.
  • Science aids in comprehending and addressing global challenges like climate change, disease, and resource scarcity.
  • Scientific literacy is crucial for informed decision-making on science-related issues.
  • Science fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation.
  • Science has elevated our quality of life through new medicines, technologies, and solutions to daily problems.
  • Science education is pivotal in preparing future generations for a rapidly evolving world.

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