Final answer:
Science is the systematic pursuit of knowledge about the natural world based on evidence and logic. It involves curiosity-driven inquiry, hypothesis testing through observation and experiment, and the development of theories and scientific laws. The scientific method is a core part of this continuous process.
Step-by-step explanation:
Definition and Components of Science
Science is a methodical approach to gaining knowledge about the natural world through evidence-based inquiry and logical reasoning. Its two main components are evidence and logic. First and foremost, science begins with a question rooted in curiosity about natural phenomena. Scientists then seek to answer these questions by gathering evidence through observations, experiments, and data collection. The logical aspect of science involves forming hypotheses, conducting experiments to test these hypotheses, and refining them based on experimental outcomes to build theories and laws that describe the natural universe.
Science is not just a collection of knowledge but a continuing process that includes various fields such as physics, chemistry, biology, and astronomy. The practice of science incorporates the use of quantitative and qualitative methods and is often structured around the scientific method. This includes stating hypotheses, testing them through rigorous experimentation, and revising them to better explain the observations made. Therefore, engaging in science means adopting a mindset that values systematic investigation, openness to new evidence, and the application of mathematics and logic as tools to understand the world around us.