Science is a way of learning about the natural world through observation and questioning. It uses theories and laws to explain patterns seen in nature. Theories can change as new evidence is discovered, while laws simply describe patterns that never fail. Science is divided into life science, earth science, and physical science, each studying different natural systems and their interactions. Technology applies scientific knowledge for practical uses.

1. Chapter 1 : The Nature of Science

2. Table of Contents What is science?

27. 1 Section Check Question 1 A rule that describes a pattern in nature is known as _______. A. a scientific theory B. a scientific law C. a scientific hypothesis D. a scientific rule NC: 1.05

28. 1 Section Check Answer The answer is B. A scientific law only recognizes that patterns exist in nature; it doesn’t try to explain why they exist. When you drop a rock, it always falls—thanks to the law of gravity. NC: 1.05

29. 1 Section Check Question 2 Studying how the sun makes energy is science. Putting this knowledge to use in making solar panels, however, is called _______. A. philosophy B. solar science C. technology D. the scientific method NC: 2.01

30. 1 Section Check Answer The correct answer is C. The term “technology” refers to the application of knowledge gained through the use of science. For example, understanding why natural gas burns is science; a gas-burning stove is technology. NC: 2.01

31. 1 Section Check Question 3 Which of the following questions cannot be answered by science? A. How old is the sun? B. How do volcanoes erupt? C. Should we be kind to strangers? D. Why is the sky blue? NC: 1.01

32. 1 Section Check Answer The answer is C. Moral questions cannot be answered by science. The other questions can be answered by the careful study of nature. NC: 1.01