Chapter 9 - Nature of Science
Comprehensive Questions & Answers for Class 9 Physics (Punjab Board)
Science and Its Two Main Groups
Science:
Science is a collective knowledge about the natural phenomena, processes and events occuring around us.
Groups:
The two main groups of science are:
1. The biological sciences which deal with the living things.
2. The physical sciences which are about the study of non-living things.
Physics and Its Branches
Physics:
Physics is the fundamental science that deals with the constituents of the universe, that is matter, energy, space, time and their mutual relationships and interactions.
Branches:
- Heat and Thermodynamics
- Mechanics
- Acoustics
- Optics
- Electromagnetism
- Quantum Mechanics
- Relativistic Mechanics
- Nuclear Physics
- Particle Physics
- Astronomy
Interdisciplinary Fields and Examples
Definition:
Interdisciplinary nature of Physics refers to integration and interaction of Physics with other disciplines of science.
Examples:
- Geophysics
- Climate Physics
- Computation Physics
Steps of Scientific Method
Scientific method is a systematic approach used to search for truth of an issue and problem solving regarding natural and physical world. It is based on the following steps.
- Observation
- Hypothesis
- Experiment
- Theory
- Prediction
- Falsifiability
Hypothesis with Example
Definition:
On the basis of the data collected through observation experimentation, we can develop a hypothesis. This is done in order to test its logical results
Example:
We assume that shadows of opaque objects are formed when they come in the path of light because light travels in a straight line.
Theory vs Law of Physics
Theory:
After the successful verification of an assumption and with the help of careful experimentation it becomes a theory.
Scope:
Theory explains why and how it happens.
Example:
The assumption has been proved that light travels in a straight line.
Law:
When a theory has been tested many times and generally accepted as true, it is called a law.
Scope:
Law describe what happens.
Example:
The shadow of a ball will be round whereas the shadow of rectangular block will be rectangle. after passing theory under different situation, this becomes a law of science that light travels in a straight line.
Basis and Applications of Laser Technology
Laser technology is based on the principles of atomic physics.
Applications:
It is widely used in medical diagnosis and treatment, metallurgy, industry, telecommunication and space exploration.
Falsifiability concept & its Importance
Falsifiability:
Definition:
It is a concept introduced that suggests a theory to be considered scientific if it also make predictions that can be tested and potentially proven false.
Importance:
It distinguishes scientific theories from false or pretended beliefs that can not be experimentally tested.
Theory of Science (Significance)
No, scientific theory is not considered an ultimate truth because science represents the best explanation based on current knowledge, but not necessarily an absolute truth.
Can Laws of Nature Change in Future
As new discoveries are made and our understanding of universe is evolves it is possible that existing laws of nature may need to change in future.
Jobs That Need Scientific Knowledge
Following are three jobs that need the use of scientific knowledge.
- Environmental scientists
- Medical research scientists
- Aerospace engineer
Theory Rejection or Modification
As additional scientific evidence is gathered a scientific theory may be modified and ultimately rejected if it can not be made to fit the new findings.
Falsifiability of Scientific Theory
The statement is correct; a key aspect of scientific theory is its falsifiability meaning it must be able to be potentially disproven by new evidence not just confirmed by existing data.
General Reaction to New Ideas
Resistance has usually been the general reaction to new ideas about established truths.
If Hypothesis is Not Testable (Explain)
Yes, a hypothesis that is not testable is wrong because it can not be proven right or wrong.
Small Data vs Prediction Proof
A small amount of data can not prove prediction is always correct because it might not represent the full range of possible scenarios, leaving room for exceptions that could disprove the prediction when more data is collected.
Relationship Between Experiment and Hypothesis
A hypothesis is formulated to explain an observation and experiment is created to test it.
Need of Interdisciplinary Research
Collaboration and interdisciplinary nature of science is essential for addressing the complex issues and challenges of today. By working together and sharing knowledge, scientists can achieve more significant breakthrough and contribute to a deeper understanding of the natural and physical world around us. It allows us to contribute to advance in technology, healthcare, environmental issues and many other areas.
Scope & Branches of Physics
Scope of Physics:
Physics is the fundamental science that deals with the constituents of the universe, that is matter, energy, space, time and their mutual relationships and interactions.
Branches of Physics:
• Mechanics
• Heat and thermodynamics
• Acoustics
• Optics
• Electromagnetism
• Quantum Mechanics
• Relativistic Mechanics
• Nuclear Physics
• Particle Physics
• Astronomy
Mechanics:
It is the study of motion and the physical effects which influence motion. It is based on Newton's laws of motion and gravitation and is often called classical mechanics.
Heat and Thermodynamics:
It deals with the thermal energy possessed by the materials and it is used when it flows from one body to another.
Acoustics:
It deals with nature and physical aspects of audible sound energy.
Optics:
It deals with the physical aspects of visible light.
Electromagnetism:
It is the study of electromagnetic phenomenon and mutual relationship between electric current and magnetic field.
Quantum Mechanics:
It explains the behaviour of particles at the atomic and subatomic level.
Relativistic Mechanics:
It explains how space and time are not absolute quantities but related to observer. It describes the relationship between them and how they are influenced by gravity and speed.
Nuclear Physics:
It is the study of the properties of nuclei of the atoms.
Particle Physics:
It is the study of subatomic particles and elementary particles which are basic building blocks of matter.
Astronomy:
It is the study of distribution of celestial bodies like planets, stars, and galaxies.
Interdisciplinary Fields of Physics
Interdisciplinary Fields of Physics:
Interdisciplinary nature of Physics refers to integration and interaction of Physics with other disciplines of science. Some of them are biophysics, astrophysics,
geophysics, climate physics and computational physics.
Example:
Geophysics:
It applies physical principle to the study of internal structure of the Earth, its magnetic and gravitational fields, seismic activity (earthquake), volcanoes, etc.
Climate Physics:
It includes the study of physical process in the environment, including atmospheric dynamics, climate change and weather conditions.
Computational Physics:
It is about the use of computational techniques and the methods to solve complex physical problems.
Scientific Method and Steps
Scientific method:
Definition:
Scientific method is a systematic approach used to search for truth of a issue and problem solving regarding natural and physical world.
Steps:
Observation:
The first step in scientific method is to make observations of natural processes and to collect the data about them. This may be done either by ordinary observations or by obtaining the results from different experiments.
Example:
It is our common observation that shadow of an opaque objects are formed when they come in the path of light coming from the Sun or a lamp.
Hypothesis:
On the basis of the data collected through observations or experimentation, we can develop a hypothesis. This is done in order to test its logical results i.e. it is assumed that nature will act in a particular way under certain specific circumstances.
Example:
We assume that shadows of opaque objects are formed when they come in the path of light because light travels in a straight line.
Experiment:
Experiment is an organized repeatable process which is used to test the truth of a hypothesis.
Example:
To verify the assumption made in the above example, four card boards, each with a hole, are placed in a straight line, such that hole in 1st card is in front of a torch. When we see through the hole in cards, we can see the light of the torch. If any of these cards is displaced, we cannot see light passing through. Thus, this experiment proves that light travels in a straight line.
Theory:
After the successful verification of an assumption and with the help of careful experimentation, it becomes a theory and is applicable to similar phenomena.
Example:
Atomic theory describes the structure and behaviour of atoms.
Prediction:
After the careful analysis of a theory we can make predictions about certain unknown aspects of nature. To verify the prediction, experiments are designed to test the theory over and over again. If test result do not agree, hypothesis is changed or rejected.
Example:
Meteorologists use data to predict future atmospheric conditions.
Falsifiability:
It is a concept introduced that suggest a theory to be considered scientific. If it also make predictions that can be tested and potentially proven false.
Example:
Water boils at about 100 degree celsius at sea level
Law:
When a theory has been tested many times and generally accepted as true, it is called a law.
Example:
The shadow of a ball will be round whereas the shadow of a rectangular block will be a rectangle. After testing the theory under different situations, this becomes a law of science that light travels in a straight line.
Science, Technology and Engineering (Difference)
Science:
Science refers to knowledge of the cause of natural processes.
Focus:
Science focuses on understanding natural phenomena.
Examples:
i. We use cars, bikes to go from one place to another, these all are inventions of science.
ii. We use soap which was developed by science.
Technology:
Technology refers to the methods and techniques developed by using scientific knowledge.
Focus:
Technology focuses on innovation and product development.
Examples:
i. Automobile technology is based on the principles of thermodynamics
ii. Laser technology is based on principles of atomic physics.
Engineering:
Engineering is the process of applying various technologies and scientific principles to design various instruments.
Focus:
Engineering is more focused on design buildings and structures.
Examples:
i. A civil engineer designs a bridge that can withstand strong winds, earthquakes and heavy traffic.
ii. A software engineer design a user friendly application of smartphone.
Scope of Physics in Everyday Life
Scope of Physics in everyday life:
Physics is the fundamental science that deals with the constituents of the universe, that is matter, energy, space, time and their mutual relationships and interactions.
The time measures the sequence and durations of events. It is considered fourth dimension. For example, oscillating motion such as that of a swinging pendulum relies on the time interval that determine frequency of oscillations
Another example is the time dilation which is a phenomenon discussed by special theory of relativity where time passes slowly for an observer moving at ultra-high speed compared to one relatively at rest. Physics explores how these fundamental concepts are interconnected. For example, the theory of relativity explains how space and time are not absolute quantities but are related to each other. It describes the relationship between space and time and how they are influenced by gravity and speed. For example, the bending of light around massive objects like stars.