Final answer:
Mendeleev's development of the periodic table exemplifies the scientific goal to uncover the order inherent in nature. His initial organization based on atomic weights evolved with later discoveries, highlighting our ever-growing understanding of the universe, which in turn offers insights into human behavior and the broader cosmos.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding the Function of Science According to Mendeleev
Dmitry Mendeleev, a revered figure in chemistry, is best known for his development of the periodic table. He sought to organize the elements by their atomic weights, noticing that when arranged in this manner, there were regular intervals where chemical properties repeated—a concept described as "periodic". This was a significant step in revealing the underlying order in nature. Mendeleev's work underscores one of the general goals of science: to discover order in the universe. Science does this by observing the natural world, identifying patterns, and drawing conclusions from empirical data.
While Mendeleev did not know about the atomic nucleus or protons, his periodic table paved the way for later scientists to refine the concept based on atomic number. The work of scientists like Moseley, who discovered the relationship between X-ray wavelengths and atomic number, built upon Mendeleev’s foundational organization of the elements.
In relation to human affairs and the broader cosmos, Mendeleev’s approach mirrors the scientific method's relevance to all aspects of life. The natural laws that arise from scientific discovery can provide insights into organizing and understanding human behavior and the universe's vast complexities. For example, laws like those governing survival and reproduction apply both to the biological world and to human societal structures, influencing our understanding of sustainability and development.