As we know, life science is the study of living things. Does that mean that physical science is the study of nonliving things? Watch the video to find out! Then, answer the question below.
Scientists study the nature and behavior of natural things.
Because this includes everything from microscopic organisms to the expanses of the universe, there are many different fields of study.
The sciences are divided into two groups: life sciences and physical sciences.
Life scientists study … well, life.
There are many different types of life on Earth, so life scientists typically specialize in one area.
For example, a marine biologist studies marine, or saltwater, environments like estuaries and oceans.
Botanists are scientists who study the structure and function of plant life.
Molecular biologists study molecules, like DNA, that participate in cell functions.
Ecologists are also life scientists and can study the effect of a changing environment on food webs.
Scientists who study nonliving things are physical scientists.
If you dream about peering into space, you might think about becoming an astronomer.
Physicists study the interaction of matter and energy.
Those who study chemical reactions are chemists.
You might find a geologist or two at the site of a volcano or earthquake.
Many scientists specialize in more than one field. For example, a scientist who uses the methods of physics to study the functions of the body is both a life scientist and a physical scientist!
Reflection
Question
What is the difference between physical and life science?
Life science, as the name implies, is the study of living things; physical science is the study of nonliving things.
