Lesson 1: Elements and Atoms

Science involves the study of natural products and processes with the purpose of describing, explaining, and predicting natural events. Science is theoretical knowledge, emphasizing ideas and conducting research. 
Technology, on the other hand, focuses on the skills, processes, and equipment involved with manufacturing products and performing tasks. Technology is driven by cost, reliability, efficiency, and productivity. There are many cases where technology precedes science. The battery is a good example. Volta is credited with inventing the battery in 1800 but scientists didn't understand the chemical reaction within the battery for another hundred years. In the case of Volta's battery, a new technology revealed the need for new science. In other situations, new technology can enhance existing science. Ex. computer science enhanced scientific researches. 

This course is more than the study of theoretical knowledge and empirical knowledge (practical knowledge) about the natural world. A key component throughout this course will be making connections between science, technology, and societal (STS) issues as you learn about chemistry. There are many different perspectives that can be adopted when analyzing an STS connection: economical, ethical, ecological, political, scientific, societal, and technological.