Science is a systematic way of learning about the natural world. It uses observations, evidence, and careful testing to build and improve explanations.
How scientific investigation works
- Ask a question. Start with something specific that can be investigated.
- Gather information. Observe what happens and learn what is already known.
- Make a testable prediction. A proposed explanation or prediction is often called a hypothesis.
- Test the prediction. Collect data through experiments or other observations, while controlling for factors that could affect the result.
- Analyze the evidence. Look for patterns and consider whether the results support the prediction.
- Share and revise. Communicate the method and findings so others can evaluate them. New evidence may lead scientists to refine their explanations.
Major branches of science
- Biology studies living organisms and life processes.
- Chemistry studies substances, their properties, and how they change.
- Physics studies matter, energy, motion, and forces.
- Earth and space science studies our planet, its environment, and the universe.
Science is not a collection of unquestionable facts. It is an ongoing process for checking ideas against evidence. Scientific conclusions can be strong and reliable while still being updated when better evidence becomes available.