Science is often called the world’s largest unifying force. It is also one of its most under-utilized fields, with research funding averaging only 3% of total federal funding. Despite this low utilization, science is the most important factor in society. The most commonly known branches of science are genetics and physics, which are the basis for much of modern technology. A growing number of other branches of science are developing new technologies every year.
In terms of research, science can be divided into three major areas: Physical Science, Chemistry and Biochemistry, and Nanotechnology. Physical sciences deal with matter such as matter of form and energy like light, heat, and magnetism. Chemical and biological sciences deal with the properties of matter and their chemical makeup, and Nanotechnology focuses on the technology used to build biological systems.
A major part of the scientific method is observation and experimentation. This is the process of collecting knowledge gained by observation, either experimentally or theoretically. Common types of experiments include those measuring heat, light, sound, or other natural phenomena. Some scientific methods also involve technological artifacts, such as x-rays, telescopes, and camera filters. While these methods may seem bizarre to many, they are staples of modern science.
There are four major theories in modern physics and they are also a part of nearly all sciences. The first two, conservation of energy and power, are natural laws. The third, general laws of cause and effect, is a model for all phenomena. Lastly, the theories of relativity to show that space, time, and matter itself is structured like a large smooth sphere. All of these theories provide a framework through which scientists can measure, observe, analyze, and account for various natural phenomena.
Naturalists classify different types of organisms, types of plants and animals, and certain aspects of their physical systems. They also divide the world into micro and macroscopic regions. An example is how bacteria are classified as single cells or as whole colonies. Naturalists further divide the subject into living and non-living things, the biosphere and the ecosystem, and how all of these combine to affect the climate and the levels of the Earth’s atmosphere.
In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in both natural and scientific subjects. Partially due to the popularization of television shows such as Finding Nemo and the vastly popular movie Finding Dory, people are more open about discussing scientific topics. More people are also becoming self-starters in basic scientific research and learning. Because of the advancements in scientific method and tools, people are able to test their own theories and hypothesis against the available data. While this provides great flexibility for students and teachers, it also makes for a more rigorous and accurate form of science class.