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Ch. 1 Biology: The Study of Scientific Life
Taylor - Campbell Biology: Concepts & Connections 10th Edition
Taylor, Simon, Dickey, Hogan10th EditionCampbell Biology: Concepts & ConnectionsISBN: 9780136538783Not the one you use?Change textbook
Chapter 1, Problem 13

Contrast technology with science. Give an example of each to illustrate the difference.

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Define technology: Technology involves the application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes, especially in industry. It focuses on the creation of tools and methods to solve practical problems and improve human life.
Define science: Science is a systematic enterprise that builds and organizes knowledge in the form of testable explanations and predictions about the universe. It aims to understand the natural world through observation, experimentation, and theoretical explanation.
Example of technology: Consider the development of smartphones. Smartphones are a result of applied technology where various scientific principles in electronics, computing, and telecommunications are utilized to create a device that allows for global communication, internet access, and multimedia functionality.
Example of science: The theory of evolution by natural selection, proposed by Charles Darwin, is an example of science. It is a scientific theory that describes the process by which organisms change over time as a result of changes in heritable physical or behavioral traits.
Contrast the examples: The development of smartphones (technology) directly applies scientific knowledge for practical use, enhancing communication and information access. In contrast, the theory of evolution (science) provides a fundamental explanation of biological diversity and the process of natural selection, focusing on understanding and describing natural phenomena rather than on practical application.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Definition of Science

Science is a systematic enterprise that builds and organizes knowledge in the form of testable explanations and predictions about the universe. It relies on empirical evidence, experimentation, and observation to develop theories and laws. For example, the theory of evolution explains the diversity of life through natural selection.
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Definition of Technology

Technology refers to the application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes, especially in industry. It encompasses tools, machines, and systems designed to solve problems or enhance human capabilities. An example of technology is the smartphone, which integrates various scientific principles to facilitate communication and information access.
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Interrelationship between Science and Technology

Science and technology are interrelated; scientific discoveries often lead to technological advancements, while technology can provide new tools for scientific research. This synergy drives innovation and progress in various fields. For instance, advancements in computer technology have revolutionized data analysis in scientific research.
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