IB MYP 4-5 Physics- Scientific vs non-scientific claims- Study Notes - New Syllabus
IB MYP 4-5 Physics-Scientific vs non-scientific claims- Study Notes
Key Concepts
- Scientific vs non-scientific claims
Scientific vs Non-Scientific Claims in Space Science
Scientific vs Non-Scientific Claims in Space Science
Scientific Claims
- Scientific claims are based on evidence, observations, and experiments.
- They can be tested, measured, and verified using the scientific method.
- In space science, these include claims supported by data from telescopes, satellites, and probes.
- Examples: orbital measurements, spectral analysis of stars, detection of exoplanets, cosmic microwave background radiation data.
Non-Scientific Claims
- Non-scientific claims are based on beliefs, opinions, myths, or cultural traditions rather than measurable evidence.
- They cannot be tested or proven using the scientific method.
- In space science, these often include astrology, myths about constellations, or alien conspiracy theories.
Differences
| Aspect | Scientific Claim | Non-Scientific Claim |
|---|---|---|
| Basis | Evidence, data, experiments | Belief, tradition, personal opinion |
| Testability | Can be tested and verified | Cannot be scientifically tested |
| Example in Space Science | “The Sun produces energy through nuclear fusion” | “Your zodiac sign determines your personality” |
Why This Distinction Matters
- Helps separate reliable scientific knowledge from unverified claims.
- Encourages critical thinking when evaluating information about space.
- Prevents spread of misinformation (e.g., “the Moon landing was faked”).
Example:
Astronomers claim that the universe is expanding because galaxies are moving away from us (redshift evidence).
▶️ Answer/Explanation
This is a scientific claim because it is based on observational evidence (redshift of light from galaxies) and can be tested with repeated measurements using telescopes.
Example:
Horoscopes claim that the position of planets at your birth determines your personality and future.
▶️ Answer/Explanation
This is a non-scientific claim because it is not testable or supported by evidence. Planetary positions do not influence human behavior in measurable ways.
Example:
Scientists state that the Sun generates energy through nuclear fusion of hydrogen into helium in its core.
▶️Answer/Explanation
This is a scientific claim because it is supported by physical models of fusion, solar neutrino detection, and consistent experimental physics results.
Evaluating Technology: Strengths and Weaknesses
Evaluating Technology: Strengths and Weaknesses
Satellites
- Strengths: Provide global communication, navigation (GPS), weather forecasting, and Earth monitoring.
- Weaknesses: Expensive to launch/maintain, limited lifespan, space debris risk, can be affected by solar radiation.
Space Probes
- Strengths: Can travel beyond human limits, collect data from distant planets, moons, and asteroids without risking human lives.
- Weaknesses: Long communication delays, high cost, cannot repair once far away, limited by power supply (e.g., solar panels or nuclear batteries).
Telescopes
- Strengths: Allow observation of distant objects, detect different wavelengths (radio, optical, X-ray), provide data for space discoveries.
- Weaknesses: Ground-based telescopes affected by weather and atmosphere, space telescopes are expensive to launch and repair.
Nuclear Energy (in space and on Earth)
- Strengths: Provides huge amounts of energy from small fuel mass, used in powering spacecraft (RTGs), reliable long-term power.
- Weaknesses: Radioactive waste, risk of radiation leaks, safety concerns during launch if accident occurs.
Space Exploration in General
- Strengths: Expands human knowledge, technological spin-offs (GPS, medical imaging), inspires scientific progress.
- Weaknesses: Very costly, ethical concerns (space debris, planetary contamination), health risks for astronauts.
Example
Satellites are used for global communication and GPS navigation. For example, your smartphone uses signals from at least 4 satellites to determine your exact location on Earth.Evaluate Strengths and Weaknesses.
▶️ Answer / Explanation
Strength: If you are lost in a city, GPS on your phone works because satellites send accurate timing signals. Without satellites, modern navigation (like Uber or Google Maps) would not exist.
Weakness: However, building and launching each GPS satellite costs millions of dollars. After ~10–15 years, they stop working and must be replaced. Dead satellites also increase the risk of space debris.
Telescopes
The Hubble Space Telescope orbits Earth and captures high-resolution images of distant galaxies.Evaluate Strengths and Weaknesses.
▶️ Answer / Explanation
Strength: On Earth, telescopes suffer from atmospheric distortion (stars “twinkle”). Hubble avoids this by being in space, giving crystal-clear images that helped scientists calculate the universe’s age.
Weakness: The telescope cost over $10 billion. In 1990, its mirror had a flaw, and astronauts had to repair it in a dangerous mission. Space telescopes are extremely costly and risky to maintain.
Example
NASA’s Mars rovers (e.g., Perseverance) explore the Martian surface. Evaluate Strengths and Weaknesses.
▶️ Answer / Explanation
Strength: Perseverance drilled Martian rocks, tested oxygen production, and searched for microbial life — tasks too risky for humans. It extends human exploration without direct danger.
Weakness: Communicating with Mars takes up to 20 minutes. If something goes wrong, engineers cannot instantly control the rover. Repairs are impossible, meaning a breakdown can end a billion-dollar mission.