Chapter 1 Nature of Science Nature of Science

Chapter 1 Nature of Science

Nature of Science • Science- a system of knowledge based on facts or principles • What does a Scientist do? • *investigate • *plan experiments • *observe • *test results

Science has many branches: (pg. 6) Biological Sciences- science of living things Biology, Botany, Zoology, Ecology, and others. Physical Science- science of matter and energy Physics and Chemistry Earth Science- science of the earth Geology, Meteorology, an many other branches

Science and Technology Work Together • Technology-is the application of science to meet human needs. • Scientific theory-a tested possible explanation of a natural event. – Ex. The theory that heat is the energy of particles in motion. • Theories are always being questioned and tested. • Scientific Law- a summary of an observed natural event – Ex. Warm objects always become cooler when placed in cooler surroundings • Notice: The law does not explain why warm objects become cooler theories and laws are not always absolute

Mathematics can Describe Physical Events • Scientist speak different languages around the world but the language of math is universal. – Ex. Rectangle Area Equation A= l·w • Models also help scientist represent physical events.

The Way Science Works • Critical thinking- applying logic and reason to observations and conclusions. • Scientific method- a series of logical steps to follow in order to solve problems. • Observe→ Form Question→Collect data→Form hypothesis→Test→ Multiple observations→Draw conclusions

The Way Science Works • Scientist test hypothesis by doing experiments. • Variable- anything that can change in an experiment • The best experiments change only one variable at a time. – Ex. Squeaky doors • Scientific tools- microscope, telescope, computers, measuring devices.