What is

Physical
Science?
Natural Science is divided into 3
main branches:
①Physical Science
② Earth and Space Science
③ Life Science

In this class we will be focusing on

Physical Science, which mainly
focuses on the study of non-living
things.
So what is Physical Science?
Physical Science is the study of matter,
energy, and the changes they undergo.

 Matter is anything that has mass and

occupies space.

 Energy is the ability to do work or cause

change.
 Branches of Physical Science
PHYSICS
 Study of matter, energy,
motion, forces, and how they
interact
 Learn about different forms of
energy
 Apply the laws of physics that  Hydrogen alone is combustible.
govern energy to Earth, the
solar system, and the universe
beyond
 Ever wonder how a laser
works? A physicist knows!
CHEMISTRY
 Study of the properties of matter
and how matter changes
 Learn about the particles that
make up matter and properties
of different forms of matter
Oxygen alone is combustible.
When combined in the form of
water, H2O, they put out fire!
Why?
 Why Study Physical Science?
Because it is used everyday in the real world!

Who can think of some examples of when

Physical Science is used in real life?
Consider these examples:

The water you shower with is heated by chemical fuel or electricity

You use force to crush food when you eat

The food you eat is converted into chemical energy that your body
uses to perform all of your daily tasks

There are chemicals in toothpaste you use to brush your teeth

BIG ideas of Physical Science

 force and energy

 the laws of conservation

 atoms, molecules, and the atomic

theory

The behavior of particles of matter in

solids, liquids, and gases
 Skills Scientists Use:
 Observing- Using one or more senses to gather information.

2 Types of observations:

1) Qualitative Observations- Do not involve

numbers or measurements, “That man is tall.”

2) Quantitative Observations- Involve

measurements, “That man is 6’5” tall.”

 Inferring (or making an inference)- Based on your

observations or what you already know; not always correct.

 Predicting- making forecast of what will happen in the

future based on past experience or evidence
Observation Versus Inference!

OBSERVATION: INFERENCE:

The lady is wearing a ring That lady is married.

on left hand ring finger.

The boy is carrying an It must be raining outside.

umbrella.

The man has grey hair. That man is old.

Now you try! In your notes, classify the
following as observations or inferences:

She must go to the beach a lot.

Her skin is very tan.

I smell funnel cake!

There may be an amusement

park nearby.
Now you try! In your notes, classify the
following as observations or inferences:

She must go to the beach a lot.

 INFERENCE

Her skin is very tan.

 OBSERVATION

I smell funnel cake!

 OBSERVATION

There may be an amusement

park nearby.

INFERENCE