Applications of Science (Edexcel A Level Physics): Revision Note

Applications of Science

Investigations & Evaluations

• An application of science involves using scientific knowledge to carry out an investigation

  • For example, developing a new type of radiotherapy, which may also include further research based on prior scientific knowledge

• Evaluating experimental methods is an important skill for a scientist and is appropriate to meet the expected outcomes of the experiment

• A good way to evaluate an experimental design is by 

  • Repeating the experiment (using the instructions provided)

  • Determining the reproducibility of the experiment i.e. whether or not similar results can be achieved

• This process is known as peer review

•  All applications of science will have benefits and risks

• For developing a new type of radiotherapy, designed to treat cancer, the benefits are clear that the treatment could potentially save lives

  • However, there are also risks with accidents occurring when using harmful radiation

• All new technologies are therefore always tested thoroughly

  • When carrying out practical experiments in A-Level physics, the risks should be reduced as much as possible for everyone's safety

• Some safety precautions include:

  • Wearing safety goggles when required

  • Not eating or drinking during experiments

  • Always keeping bags and chairs tucked away under desks to avoid someone tripping over in the classroom

  • Standing up for the duration of the experiment, in case a piece of apparatus falls off and to react quickly

  • No liquids kept around the apparatus, especially if they rely on electricity (e.g. circuits, oscilloscopes etc.)

  • Turning off the power supply in between readings for thin wires so they don't become too hot. This could cause a burn or, affect the results of the experiment from the change in temperature

  • A soft surface underneath anything falling (such as a ball bearing when calculating g), to protect surfaces

  • Attaching a clamp stand to the table surface to keep it rigid

Implications of Science

• An implication of science is a consequence of the scientific knowledge

• The implications could be:

  • Commercial - concerning money e.g. the funding for a scientific experiment

  • Legal - concerning law e.g. copyright protection for data collections

  • Ethical - concerning moral principles e.g. using animals, humans

  • Social - concerning society e.g. how the results affect all members of society (children, elderly, disabled etc.)

• For example, when building a new power station, although this will provide an appropriate energy source, the implications could be:

  • Commercial - who pays to run and maintain the power station and how much will this cost

  • Legal - planning permissions to build the power station which requires a lot of land

  • Ethical - is it safe for the wildlife that live in the area

  • Social - how will the power station affect the people that live in the surrounding area in both health and economic prospects (e.g. providing more jobs)