What is the Difference Between Science and Applied Science?

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The main difference between science and applied science lies in their objectives and applications. Here are the key distinctions between the two:

  • Science:
  • Also known as basic or pure science, it focuses on expanding the knowledge base of a particular field of study, regardless of its short-term application.
  • The primary goal of science is knowledge for knowledge's sake, although it may eventually result in practical applications.
  • Science seeks to understand how the universe works and generates new scientific information by exploring the unknown.
  • It is often funded by universities and charitable organizations.
  • Applied Science:
  • Also referred to as practical or technology-oriented science, it uses the knowledge base supplied by basic science to devise solutions, often technological, to specific problems.
  • The primary goal of applied science is to solve real-world problems and meet societal needs, with practical applications such as improving health, finding cures for diseases, or saving endangered animals.
  • Applied science translates scientific knowledge into tangible applications, leading to advancements in fields like medicine, engineering, agriculture, and environmental conservation.
  • It is primarily funded by companies hoping to make a profit.

In summary, science focuses on expanding our understanding of the natural world, while applied science uses the knowledge gained from basic science to develop practical solutions for real-world problems. These two types of science often complement each other, as advancements in basic science can lead to new ideas and breakthroughs in applied science.

Comparative Table: Science vs Applied Science

Here is a table comparing the differences between science and applied science:

Aspect Science (Basic Science) Applied Science
Focus Expanding knowledge base Solving practical problems
Goal Knowledge for knowledge's sake Developing products or services of immediate public or commercial value
Methodology Experimentation and observation to discover new facts, principles, and laws related to an observed phenomenon Using scientific discoveries from basic research to solve real-world problems
Funding Primarily funded by government agencies Often funded by private companies or organizations
Examples Studies on cell division, genetics, and evolution Developing cures for diseases, improving public health, and saving animals threatened by natural disasters

Science, also known as basic science or pure science, focuses on expanding the knowledge base of a field of research without necessarily aiming for immediate practical applications. On the other hand, applied science uses the knowledge gained from basic research to solve specific problems and develop products or services of immediate public or commercial value.