Science, Technology, and Engineering

I. Science

  • System of knowledge about the universe
  • Establishes accurate conclusions about natural phenomena
  • Process:
    • Formulate hypotheses
    • Gather information
    • Perform experiments
  • Goal: Understand how things in the natural world work or behave
  • Example: Physics studying principles of motion and energy

II. Technology

  • Application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes
  • Develops material products or processes to satisfy human needs/desires
  • Creates tools, machines, and systems to solve problems or achieve goals
  • Example: Development of smartphones

III. Engineering

  • Practical application of scientific and mathematical principles
  • Creates and constructs structures, devices, and processes
  • Solves real-world problems creatively and systematically
  • Example: Civil engineering designing infrastructure

IV. Interconnections

  • Science provides knowledge base for technology and engineering
  • Technology enables new scientific exploration
  • Engineering applies scientific principles to create new technologies

V. Key Differences

  • Science: Pursuit of knowledge and understanding
  • Technology: Application of knowledge for practical purposes
  • Engineering: Problem-solving using scientific and mathematical principles

VI. Impact

  • Advances in one field often lead to progress in others
  • Continuous cycle of discovery, application, and innovation