Non-biological science is an umbrella term often used to refer to a range of scientific fields including physical, chemical, and social sciences as well as closely related fields such as mathematics and engineering. As opposed to biological science, where the study of living organisms and processes are the focus, non-biological science focuses on studying the physical and chemical components and processes of the natural world. This can include topics such as the study of the solar system, the formation of mountains and continents, and the behavior of objects in space and on Earth. Though it may appear to lack the obvious connection with life, non-biological science forms the foundation for many of the advances that we humans rely on each and every day.
Examples of Non-Biological Sciences
Non-biological sciences include a wide variety of scientific disciplines that are related to, but distinct from, biological science. Some of the more prominent and well-known examples of non-biological science include:
Chemistry
Chemistry is the study of the composition, structure, properties, and interactions of matter. It includes areas such as organic and inorganic chemistry, analytical chemistry, biochemistry, physical chemistry, and chemical engineering. The foundations for the science of chemistry were actually laid down by the ancient Egyptians and Early Greeks who, using crude means, investigated the composition of matter and the effects of different substances when combined.
Physics
Physics is the study of the physical world and its properties. It covers topics such as motion, energy, force, and mass as they relate to objects and particles in the universe. It is often considered the most fundamental of all sciences since it provides the basic language and tools necessary to explain how the universe works in the simplest of terms. Famous physicists such as Newton, Boyle, and Einstein, have helped us understand a great deal about the biological world through their studies using physics.
Astronomy
Astronomy is the study of the universe and its celestial bodies, such as stars, planets, comets, and galaxies. It is an ancient science that has been studied for centuries and is one that continues to captivate the minds of scientists and laypeople alike. Astronomers use a variety of tools and techniques to observe and measure objects in the sky. Today, astronomers use powerful telescopes, space probes, and observatories to not only further understand the workings of the universe, but also investigate how different celestial bodies interact with one another.
Geology
Geology is the scientific study of the Earth and its composition, structure, and processes. It covers an array of topics such as the identification and understanding of rocks and minerals, the history of Earth and its surface features, and even the study of earthquakes and volcanoes. Geology is one of the most important non-biological sciences since our understanding of Earth’s history and structure is essential to our survival and our ability to develop long-term solutions to global issues such as climate change.
Mathematics
Mathematics is the study of numbers and their associated operations, symbols, and relationships. It is a powerful tool used to investigate the behavior of objects and sequences, as well as to better understand the laws of probability and chance. Mathematics forms the basis for many scientific theories, including physics and astronomy, as well as provides powerful tools for data analysis and processing.
The Importance of Non-Biological Sciences
Though they may not be as widely publicized as its biological counterpart, non-biological sciences are just as important and should not be overlooked. Non-biological sciences provide us with the theoretical framework needed to investigate and better understand the complexities of the universe, as well as provide us with powerful tools to gather and analyze data. In short, non-biological sciences form the basis for much of the progress humans have made in our understanding of the world. In addition, non-biological sciences are invaluable for providing us with long-term solutions to global issues, such as climate change and energy security. It is therefore essential that we continue to invest in non-biological science and ensure that we have a strong foundation for the future.