R ReadLittle The Kids' Encyclopedia

Scientist

readlittle.com

A person who studies and discovers how things work


A scientist is a person who studies how the world works by observing, experimenting, and thinking carefully. Scientists try to answer questions about nature, matter, space, living things, and even ideas. Their main goal is to understand the truth about how things happen and to use that knowledge to solve problems or invent new things.

People have been learning about science since ancient times. Early scientists, like the Greek philosopher Aristotle, studied plants, animals, and the stars by watching them closely. Later, during the Scientific Revolution in the 1600s, people such as Galileo Galilei and isaac-newton began using experiments and mathematics to test their ideas. This new way of studying the world — called the scientific method — changed history and became the foundation of modern science.

Scientists work in many different fields. Some study space and planets (astronomers), while others explore tiny living cells (biologists) or chemicals and materials (chemists). Physicists study energy and motion, and geologists study rocks and the earth. Medical scientists look for ways to treat or prevent diseases, and environmental scientists study how to protect the planet. Although their subjects differ, all scientists share a love of learning and a desire to discover new things.

To do their work, scientists follow a process called the scientific method. It begins with asking a question or observing something interesting. Then they form a guess, called a hypothesis, and test it by doing experiments or collecting data. After studying the results, they decide whether their idea was correct. If not, they test again and share what they find so others can learn from it too. This process helps ensure that scientific knowledge is fair, repeatable, and based on evidence.

In today’s world, scientists work together across countries and fields. They use technology like computers, satellites, and microscopes to study things too big or too small for human eyes. Their discoveries lead to new medicines, cleaner energy, and inventions that make life easier — from airplanes to the internet. Scientists also play an important role in solving global challenges, such as climate change and health crises.

Becoming a scientist takes curiosity, patience, and creativity. Many scientists spend years studying in school and working in laboratories or outdoors. They learn by asking questions, exploring ideas, and never giving up when experiments fail. science is a journey of discovery, and scientists help humanity understand both the smallest atoms and the farthest galaxies.

What We Can Learn

  • A scientist studies how the world works through observation and experiments.
  • The scientific method helps scientists test ideas fairly and carefully.
  • Scientists work in many fields, such as biology, physics, and astronomy.
  • Their discoveries help solve problems and improve life around the world.