Introduction
In contemporary society, science is mingled with our daily experiences, sometimes even to the point that we are not even aware of it. For instance, we use alarm clocks to wake us up, mobile phones to read our messages, light switches to turn on our lighting, cooking r equipment to prepare our meals, transportation systems such as cars to move us from one location to another, and the internet to communicate with our colleagues.
Knowing the science behind such technologies helps us realize how far we have come as a species. It also helps instill curiosity, critical thinking, and appreciation for science. In this article, we will examine the science behind various technologies that we use daily in our lives.
The Science Behind Smartphones
The smartphone has now become an integral part of our daily life. There is a lot of physics, chemistry, as well as computer science, involved in the background of a smartphone, which is hidden in its slim design. Touchscreen is one of the most essential components of a smartphone, irrespective of which brand and type a user chooses to buy. The most commonly used touchscreens are of a capacitive nature, which operate on the basis of electrical conductivity.
The power source within a smartphone is another amazing scientific phenomenon. The lithium-ion battery uses a chemical reaction involving lithium ions to store energy. The battery is portable, rechargeable, and energy-efficient, thus ideal for use in a smartphone. On a different note, the cameras on a smartphone employ optics science. The sensors on the camera convert light into digital signals, which produce a photograph in a matter of seconds.
How Internet and Wi-Fi Work
The internet is one of the most significant scientific accomplishments of the modern era. Every time you look at a website page or send a message, your computer is communicating with a series of computer servers that blanket the globe, which are linked together by cables and satellites.
Wi-Fi connects via radio waves, which are a wavelength of electromagnetic waves. The data is sent from your router via radio waves, which your computer picks up. This is how a scientific phenomenon invisible to our naked eyes has made the world a global talking shop.
Electricity in Homes & Buildings
Electricity is the cornerstone of modern society. Electricity is produced in power plants by using different types of energy to produce electric energy. The different types of energy used are fossil fuel energy, energy obtained from water, energy from winds, energy released from nuclear reactions, and energy from the sun. The produced electricity is transferred to houses via electric power grids.
In homes, there are electric circuits that enable the safe flow of electricity to household appliances. Turning on a switch is basically creating a circuit, which makes electrons flow, hence powering appliances. It is not possible to have the current state of homes with electric appliances if there were no knowledge of electric science.
The Science of Refrigerators & Air Conditioners
Refrigerators and air conditioners are not cold-producing devices; rather, they are used for the removal of heat. This phenomenon is supported by the science of thermodynamics. Refrigerants, which are used in such devices, absorb heat during the process of evaporation, as well as during condensation.
Refrigeration slows the growth rate of bacteria, which is essential in ensuring food safety. Air conditioning enhances productivity, particularly in warmer countries.
Transportation and Scientific Innovation
Rapid advancements
Contemporary transportation is extremely reliant on science and engineering. Cars are powered by internal combustion engines and/or electric motors, which convert energy into motion. Another area of physics that helps minimize air resistance is aerodynamics.
Planes rely on the principles of lift and thrust in order to remain in the air. Even a bicycle is a demonstration of physics, with aspects such as balance, friction, and momentum in play. The science of transportation has led to a more interrelated planet than has ever been experienced in the past.
Use of Health Technology in Everyday Life
Science is a critical part of healthcare. The development of instruments such as thermometer, blood pressure monitor, and imaging machines stems from physics, biology, and chemistry sciences. The production of vaccines and medications is a result of scientific research.
Even fitness-tracking devices, such as wristwatches, employ sensors that analyze heart rate, sleep, and activity. Such technologies assist people in becoming proactive about taking care of themselves. Conclusion The technologies that we use on a daily basis may appear very commonplace, but they are founded on some really incredible scientific discoveries. Ranging from our mobile phones to the use of electricity, science is sneaking into our lives. Knowing the principles behind these scientific discoveries helps not only in increasing our knowledge but also gives us a reason to respect innovations and use science in a responsible way.
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