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General Chemistry Principles, Patterns, and Applications, 2011

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eginning scientist who intends to spend your career studying such problems or as an informed observer who is able<br />

to participate in public debates that will certainly arise as society grapples with scientific issues.<br />

Summary<br />

<strong>Chemistry</strong> is the study of matter <strong>and</strong> the changes material substances undergo. It is essential for<br />

underst<strong>and</strong>ing much of the natural world <strong>and</strong> central to many other scientific disciplines, including<br />

astronomy, geology, paleontology, biology, <strong>and</strong> medicine.<br />

K E Y T A K E A W A Y<br />

<br />

An underst<strong>and</strong>ing of chemistry is essential for underst<strong>and</strong>ing much of the natural world <strong>and</strong> is central to<br />

many other disciplines.<br />

1.2 The Scientific Method<br />

L E A R N I N G O B JE C T I V E<br />

1. To identify the components of the scientific method.<br />

Scientists search for answers to questions <strong>and</strong> solutions to problems by using a procedure called<br />

the scientific method. This procedure consists of makingobservations, formulating hypotheses, <strong>and</strong><br />

designing experiments, which in turn lead to additional observations, hypotheses, <strong>and</strong> experiments in repeated<br />

cycles (Figure 1.4 "The Scientific Method").<br />

Figure 1.4 The Scientific Method<br />

As depicted in this flowchart, the scientific method consists of making observations, formulating<br />

hypotheses, <strong>and</strong> designing experiments. A scientist may enter the cycle at any point.<br />

Saylor URL: http://www.saylor.org/books<br />

Saylor.org<br />

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