What is Science?

Science is the systematic organization of knowledge gained through observation, experimentation and logical reasoning.

• The word ‘science’ originates from the Latin verb scientia, meaning “to know”.
• The Arabic term Ilm and the Sanskrit word Vijñãn both signify “knowledge” in the same sense. It is known as ‘அறிவியல்’ (Ariviyal) in Tamil and means “understanding the truth”.
• The human mind is constantly intrigued to learn about and comprehend many phenomena, such as the rainbow, eclipses, tides, volcanoes, and other spectacular celestial objects that are found in nature. A curious mind searches such phenomena for significant relationships and patterns. An outgrowth of our understanding of nature is modern science and technology.
• Science is the systematic organization of knowledge gained through observation, experimentation and logical reasoning.
• The word ‘science’ was coined only in the 19th century.
• Indian scientific and mathematical excellence extends to prehistoric times, to the Indus Valley Civilization (3300–1300 BC) (BCE).
• When ancient civilizations understood and used astronomy, chemistry, human physiology, and agriculture, they called this knowledge science. This term was later changed to natural philosophy.
• One of the oldest forerunners of scientific breakthroughs, from astronomy to medicine, were the Egyptians.

The term "pure science" can be used to distinguish science from "applied science," which refers to the application of study to address human needs. Science fields are often divided into two broad groups.

1. Natural science: Natural science is the branch of knowledge that focuses on nature. The knowledge of science dealing with non-living things is physical science (Physics and Chemistry), and that dealing with living things is biological science (Botany, Zoology etc.). 
2. Social science: Social science is the methodical study of society and human conduct.