Questions On Mathematics And Physics - 1331 Words

Liu 1 Hilary Liu Dr. Goldader Honors Physics September 8, 2014 Chapter 1 Homework Answers 1) Why is mathematics important to science, and especially to physics? Mathematics is important to science, and especially to physics, because mathematics are a very precise form of communication. When models are based on scientific findings in nature are expressed mathematically, they are easier to verify or disprove by experiment. When the ideas and models of science are expressed in mathematical terms, they are unambiguous. The equations of science provide compact and exact expressions between relationships and concept. The methods of mathematics and experimentation have led to enormous successes in science. 2) What are the steps of the†¦show more content†¦-SQUIRREL! Trial and error, experimentation without prior guessing, and accidental discovery account for much of the progress in science. The success of science has more to do with an attitude of inquiry, experimentation, and humility than with a particular method. 4) What is a model, as the term is used in science? A model is, as the term is used in science, is the description of a natural phenomenon, usually a mathematical equation. Models attempt to describe what nature does, and therefore nature does not follow our models. The more complex a model is, the more accurately it described a phenomenon, but no model is ever really complete. Because a model is just a description of how nature works, models can be revised when new data is obtained or somebody comes up with a better idea. This is how science progresses. Sometimes even very successful models just fail and have to be replaces with new ones that can better explain nature. Liu 2 5) Your textbook that scientific laws or principles can be contradicted. Can a fact, as defined in your book, also be shown to be false? If so, give an example. A fact, as defined in the book can be shown to be false. In science, a fact is a close agreement by competent observers who make a series of observations of the same phenomenon. Many believe that facts are concrete, that they are general knowledge that cannot be disproven or otherwise, but a fact, as defined in the