1B1 Science, Engineering, and Technology Flashcards
Understand how the interdependence of science, engineering, and technology drives progress, with advancements in one area often leading to key discoveries and innovation in others.
Define:
science
The systematic study of the natural world.
It encompasses a range of disciplines, including physics, biology, and chemistry.
Each discipline is focused on understanding specific natural phenomena.
What are the systematic processes that science use to learn about the universe?
Observation and experimentation.
Science aims to observe the universe with the goal of understanding through experimentation.
Define:
technology
The application of scientific knowledge to develop tools, systems, and methods to solve problems.
It evolves from human creativity and scientific insights.
It includes everything from ancient tools, like the wheel, and more modern creations, such as A.I.
How are science and technology related?
Science generates knowledge, which technology applies to create practical tools and solutions.
Science and technology are connected, as progress in one discipline can often drive change in the other. For example, the technology of a refrigerator depends on the scientific understanding of how gases behave at different temperatures.
What is the key difference between science and technology?
Science seeks to understand natural phenomena, while technology focuses on creating tools and systems to address practical problems.
Science answers “why” questions, while technology answers “how” questions, emphasizing functionality.
How do science and technology drive each other forward?
- Scientific breakthroughs inspire new technologies.
- New technologies enable more advanced scientific research.
For example: Discoveries in physics led to the development of computers, which now support advanced scientific simulations.
True or False:
Technology cannot exist without science.
False
Although technology and science are connected, they are not dependent on one another.
Early technology existed without formal science, relying on trial and error.
Examples include early agriculture, where techniques evolved through practice.
List three goals of integrating technology in science.
- To accelerate discovery.
- To enhance understanding.
- To solve pressing global challenges.
Technology amplifies scientific capabilities, enabling advancements in health, energy, and environmental conservation.
How do science and technology impact society?
- Contribute to economic growth.
- Improve quality of life.
- Address global challenges like climate change.
Examples:
- Renewable energy technologies reducing the carbon footprint.
- Medical advancements increasing life expectancy.
Define:
engineering
The application of scientific and mathematical principles to design, build, and optimize structures, systems, and processes that solve practical problems.
Give an example of an engineering tool that led to advancements in biological research.
The telescope, which allowed scientists to explore space in greater detail.
The telescope was built by engineers and scientists based on their understanding of light and optics.
Why is collaboration between scientists and engineers important?
It ensures that scientific knowledge is effectively translated into practical technologies and solutions.
For example, engineers work with scientists to design medical devices based on biological principles.
Describe the interdependence between science, engineering, and technology.
- Science provides knowledge that drives technological development.
- Engineering applies scientific knowledge to create technology.
- Technology advances scientific discovery.
This cycle fosters innovation where each field supports and propels the others forward.
List two main uses of technology in science.
- To conduct experiments .
- To analyze data collected from experiments.
List five examples of technology used in scientific experiments.
- Pendulums
- Telescopes
- Microscopes
- Particle accelerators
- Lenses
Each of these technologies plays a vital role in enhancing scientific experiments.
Other examples include mirrors and sensors.
Which device allows for close-up viewing of objects by magnifying images?
Microscope
The microscope was invented in the late 1500s.
Scientists like Galileo and Robert Hooke improved it.
What is the Large Hadron Collider?
An advanced scientific tool that conducts experiments on fundamental particles.
The gigantic particle accelerator is a great example of technology and science working together.
The Collider has been operational since August 2008, and it is known for discovering the Higgs boson in 2013.
What is the challenge with data generated from advanced scientific tools?
It can be vast and complex, often taking years to analyze.
Data from the Large Hadron Collider, satellites, and Mars rovers is often vast and complex.
Describe potential limitations of using technology in experiments.
Equipment malfunction and software bugs can compromise results.
For instance, calibration errors in instruments can lead to inaccurate data interpretation.
What role do sensors play in experiments?
They measure environmental variables like temperature, pressure, or pH precisely.
Modern sensors are often integrated with Internet of Things (IoT) devices for real-time remote monitoring.
What is the benefit of using technology in experiments?
Increases precision and accuracy in data collection.
Technologies like laser measurement tools reduce human errors, ensuring consistent experimental results.
Fill in the blank:
Technology is used to ______ the data we collect from experiments.
analyze
Data analysis aids in interpreting the results of scientific experiments.
How do computers contribute to scientific experiments?
- Process complex data
- Run simulations
- Control experimental setups
They are used in advanced simulations model systems like weather patterns, which are computationally intensive.
List three contributions of computers in data analysis.
- Quick analysis of large datasets
- Running statistical analyses
- Identifying significant observations
Computer-based data analysis is essential for modern scientific research.
What was the Human Genome Project?
An international project aimed at mapping human DNA base pairs.
Yet another great example of science and technology working together to solve a problem!
The project ran from 1990 to 2003, and relied on computers for data analysis due to the complexity of human DNA.
What are “lab-on-a-chip” technologies?
Miniaturized devices that integrate laboratory processes on a single chip for rapid diagnostics.
These devices are particularly useful in medical diagnostics, providing point-of-care testing capabilities.
List three benefits of automation in laboratories.
- Speeds up repetitive tasks
- Reduces errors
- High-throughput experimentation
How has technology improved field experiments?
It has provided portable devices that enable real-time data collection.
Portable spectrometers and GPS devices are used in science for accurate, on-site measurements.
How is artificial intelligence (A.I.) used in scientific research?
- To generate hypotheses
- To analyze large datasets
- To identify patterns
A.I. is the simulation of human intelligence in machines programmed to think, learn, and make decisions autonomously or with minimal human intervention.
How does technology contribute to scientific education, peer review, and communication?
- It facilitates learning through tools like simulations and virtual labs.
- It enables rapid sharing of discoveries through digital publications and conferences.
Technology makes science accessible globally.
List three ethical concerns of integrating technology in science.
- Data privacy
- Potential biases in the software
- Environmental impacts of technological waste
For example, A.I. is a powerful tool that can also make errors or have bias. The use of A.I. in decision-making must balance efficiency with ethical transparency.
