Physical Science Notes: The Nature of Science

Science is Everywhere	Concept Pages: Nature of Science Standards of Measurement Motion and Forces Acceleration and Momentum Energy States of Matter Classification of Matter Atomic Structure & the Periodic Table Chemical Bonds Physical Science "Key Concepts" Home Page
Section Review questions Chapter review questions
Pure science · Gathering new information, discovering a new relationship. · Discovery of a pattern. Technology ·Apply pure scientific information or discoveries to some practical, everyday use. Also called Applied Science. Physical Science · The study of matter, energy, sound, light, electricity. Every measurable thing in the universe. Composition of matter. Behavior of matter. Relationships of matter and energy.
Earth Science · The study of earth and space. Geology, meteorology, astronomy, oceanography, etc. Earth’s place in space, changes on its surface, energy in its atmosphere, properties of its oceans.
Finding Out
Problem • a situation that seems to be missing some information Exercise • a situation where known steps need to be taken to find a solution Solving problems • involves looking for patterns, making predictions, and testing the predictions. Models • A model can often be developed to help solve a problem. Scientific Methods - CLICK to see Steps
Danger: Inference = a prediction or guess that goes beyond observation: Making a conclusion that may be unwarranted.
Exploring Science
Experiment • An organized procedure for testing a hypothesis: *Contains:* Control - an absolutely necessary standard for comparison Independent variable - adjusted by researcher to different values Dependent variable - values change as independent variables change.
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Constant - A factor that does not vary in an experiment. One last thing: Safety • Experiments can only be safe when everyone involved is aware of and follows the safety standards. Updated 10/14/07