Chapter 1
Introduction to Science
By the end of this chapter, you should be able to:
- Understand what science is.
- Name the common laboratory apparatus and their uses.
- Explain the hazard warning symbols.
- Observe the steps in a scientific investigation.
- Understand the physical quantities and their units
- Understand the concept of mass.
- Know how to use measuring tools.
What is Science?
Natural phenomena (occurs in nature) in our daily lives.
Natural Phenomena such as:
- Lightning
- Rainbows
- The melting of ice
- The growth of a baby into an adult
- Earthquake
What is science?
Science - is the systematic study of nature and how it affects us and our environment.
*Systematic study of nature means the pursuit of scientific knowledge.
Scientific knowledge – is the information produced from the study of science.
Technology – is the application of scientific knowledge for the use of mankind.
Using Scientific Knowledge
Example:
A biologist finding cure for Covid-19.
Examples:
A chemist studies different chemical reactions.
A physicist studies the rotations of the planets
The invention of many useful devices.
- Cellphones
- Computers
- Light bulbs
Importance of Science
Science plays important roles in our daily life. Here are some examples:
- Science helps us to understand ourselves.
- Science (physiology) studies about functions of living organisms and their parts.
2. Science also helps us to understand our environment.
- Environmental Science
- Ecology
- Global Warming
3. Science makes our life more comfortable.
The invention of various machines:
- Robots
- Transportation
- Home Appliances
The figure below briefly describes how science BENEFITS us in various fields.
In Homes:
- Washing machines
- Microwave ovens
- Vacuum cleaners
- Electricity
- These facilities makes life easier and comfortable
Communication:
- Televisions
- Telephones
- Mobile phones
- Computers
- Global Communication is now possible with the use of communication satellites, email and the internet.
Transportation:
- Trains
- Roads and bridges
- Rail transit
- Transportation is easier, faster and more comfortable.
Construction:
- Buildings and structures
- Powerful machineries:
- Cranes
- Tractors
- Bulldozers
- Buildings and structures are now built with strong materials such as steel, concrete and reinforced glass.
Agriculture:
- Plant breeding
- New agriculture techniques
- Fertilizers and insecticides
- Machines are used to carry out heavy and difficult tasks such as ploughing and harvesting.
Medicine:
- X-ray machines
- Ultrasound scanning devices
- More diseases can now be cured with the discoveries of new drugs, vaccines, antibiotics and the invention of better surgery techniques and equipment.
Careers in Science
- Science offers various career opportunities according to one’s area of interest. Listed below are a few examples:
- Doctor - a person who has been trained in the practices of medical science.
- Veterinarian - an animal doctor.
- Pharmacist – a person who dispenses medicinal drugs and advises on there uses.
- Engineer - a skilled person who designs, builds or maintains engines, buildings, bridges or roads.
- Architect - a person who designs buildings and advises on their construction.
- Chemist – a person trained in chemistry.
Branches of Science
- Science is divided into a number of areas of study, namely:
- Biology - The study of life.
- Physics - The study of matter, energy, force and motion.
- Chemistry - The study of the composition and chemical properties of substances.
- Astronomy - The study of planets and stars in the universe.
- Geology - The study of rocks, minerals and the structure of the Earth.
- Meteorology - The study of weather and climate.
- Biochemistry - The study of chemical processes in living organisms.
Practice Test
Q1. What is the difference between science and technology?
Q2. Give one benefit of science in the following areas.
(a) Medicine
(b) Transportation
Q3. State the field of science related to the following:
(a) Discovering a cure for cancer.
_________________
(b) Studying the behaviors of animals.
_________________
(c) Discovering new comets.
_________________
Q4. List three careers related to science.
1.
2.
3.
End for Lesson 1