Branches of Science
Learning about the major branches of science and what each studies.
Core concept
Within these three broad branches are many specialised fields: Physics includes areas like mechanics, optics, and astronomy; Chemistry includes organic chemistry (carbon compounds) and inorganic chemistry; Biology includes botany (plants), zoology (animals), and microbiology (microorganisms). Environmental science and computer science are more modern branches that combine ideas from multiple traditional sciences. Understanding which branch a question belongs to helps scientists use the right tools and methods to investigate it.
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Key diagram

- Diagram showing three branches - Physics, Chemistry, Biology - with an example topic each.
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Quick notes
• Physics = matter, energy, and forces.
• Chemistry = substances and their reactions.
• Biology = living organisms and their life processes.
• Modern branches often combine ideas from more than one traditional science.