Science is the process of discovering how the world functions. It involves asking questions, formulating theories, making observations, collecting and interpreting data, and challenging prevailing beliefs.
Different disciplines of science exist, such as physical sciences and life sciences. Each focuses on a different aspect of nature and adheres to its own standards.
Biology
Biology is the scientific study of living organisms, such as plants, animals and microorganisms. It also explores the connection between these creatures and their environment.
Biologists study all living things, from molecular level up to ecosystems and the planet as a whole (Figure). They may conduct their research in either laboratories or field settings.
Scientists study the structure, function, development, interactions and evolution of all forms of life using a variety of tools. They identify verifiable facts and construct theories based on those findings.
Biologists apply their expertise to research and industrial challenges. They may work on medical diagnostic tests and drugs; increase crop yields; develop new biofuels; or enhance manufacturing processes for greater efficiency.
Chemistry
It examines both the chemical elements that make up matter as well as their compounds.
Each substance found naturally has a distinctive set of properties that give it its unique identity. Scientists use this chemistry to gain insight into our world and create new products.
Chemicals are ubiquitous – from the air we breathe to the foods we eat. Cooking requires a complex series of reactions involving chemical compounds and physical principles taught in chemistry classes.
Physics
Physics is the branch of science that investigates the nature of matter, its physical properties, interactions and forces. It draws inspiration from other sciences like chemistry and biology in studying our universe.
Physics employs math to model the natural world, providing a concise and exact description of particles’ and waves’ behavior. This approach is essential in physics because it offers us an accessible language for comprehending our environment.
Physics researchers examine all facets of physical reality, from microscopic to macroscopic scales. To do this, they employ both experiment and theory; experiments produce measurements which are then compared against predictions made by theories. Whichever theory best predicts these results is considered a law of physics.
Astronomy
Astronomy is a scientific discipline that studies celestial bodies and their motions. It draws on mathematics, physics and chemistry to explain these bodies’ origins and development.
Society relies heavily on science for many aspects of daily living, from satellite communication and hospital heart monitors to basic information like day length, month and year. Furthermore, science has contributed to the development of technologies like Wi-Fi and GPS systems.
Astronomy, commonly understood as the study of stars, planets and galaxies, encompasses many subfields. Some are observational with ground-based telescopes while others are theoretical.
Life Science
Life science is an expansive field that encompasses all aspects of studying living organisms. This includes plants, animals, microbes and humans alike.
It can also be utilized to develop new medicines and treatments, as well as enhance agriculture and industrial development.
Life science has seen many significant developments over the last century, such as developing medicines for diabetes and cancer. Additionally, advances have been made in medical imaging and genetic testing.
This field presents both students and librarians with a formidable challenge, as it requires the study of an extensive variety of living organisms. Furthermore, it demands access to literature in all formats – from academic journals to government reports – across different platforms and venues.
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