Science and Technology

The lines between science and technology are not always clear. Generally, science is the reasoned investigation or study of nature, aimed at finding the truth, generally according to the scientific method. Technology is the application of knowledge (scientific, engineering, etc.) to achieve practical results.

For example, science might study the flow of electrons in an electric current. This knowledge then can be used to create tools; such as, semiconductors, computers, and other forms of technology.

The history of technology is as old as the history of humanity because history refers to what could be recorded by technological means. The history of technology has been a progression from simple, or "low-tech", tools and simple energy sources, and progressing to complex technical tools.

The earliest technologies converted natural resources into simple tools. Processes such as carving, chipping, scraping, rolling (the wheel), and sun-baking are simple means for the conversion of raw materials into usable products. Anthropologists have uncovered many early human houses and tools made from natural resources.

The use, and then mastery, of fire was a key turning point in man's technological evolution providing him with simple energy

The use of fire extended the capability for the treatment of natural resources and allowed for the use of natural resources that require heat to be useful.

Wood and charcoal were among the first materials used as a fuel. Wood, clay, and rock; such as, limestone, would be among the earliest materials shaped or treated by fire, for making weapons, pottery, bricks, and cement, etc. Continuing improvements; such as, the furnace made it possible to smelt and forge metal; such as, copper, about 8000 B.C., and eventually to the discovery of alloys; such as, brass and bronze about 4000 B.C. The first uses of iron alloys, steel, dates at about 1400 B.C.

Complex tools include both simple machines; such as, the lever at about 300 B.C.; the screw about 400 B.C.; and the pulley and complex machines; such as, the engine, aircraft, water craft, the computer, modern communications devices, the electric motor, the jet engine, etc. As tools increased in complexity, so has the type of knowledge needed to support them.

Modern-complex machines require written technical manuals of collected information that has been continually added to and improved upon and often are so complex, that entire technical knowledge-based processes and practices; as well as, complex tools themselves, exist to support them, including engineering, medicine, computer science, etc. Further, complex machines require complex manufacturing and construction techniques and organizations. Entire industries have come into existence to support and develop complex tools.

The main science-word unit.

Related articles about science: "Science Race"; STEM, Part 1; STEM, Part 2; Scientific Specialties.