Boy building electronics circuit.

How does applied science differ from theoretical science?

by Lewis Loflin


The focus of this website is practical electronics and real world applications. Electronics is applied science, that differs from theoretical science that can seem both useless and speculative.

Yet what seemed useless or of little use in the past is today the basis of entire industries.

For example the work of Charles Babbage (born December 26, 1791, died October 18, 1871). Babbage is the father of the modern computer. He invented the Difference Engine (1822) and the Analytical Engine (1837).

The Analytical Engine had:

An "arithmetic logic unit" (the "mill")
A "control unit" (equivalent to a CPU)
Memory (the "store")
Input/Output mechanisms

To quote,

Ada Lovelace: Babbage's collaboration with Ada Lovelace, often credited as the world's first computer programmer, was also significant. Lovelace wrote what are considered the first algorithms intended for implementation on Babbage's Analytical Engine, particularly a method for calculating Bernoulli numbers.

"Charles Babbage's contributions laid the groundwork for computing machinery. His ideas were far ahead of his time, and while his machines were never completed during his life, they provided a conceptual framework that influenced the development of computers in the 20th century."

My focus is what can built, reused, or repurpose, or repaired by anyone with reasonable skill sets. This can lead to new discoveries - in the real physical world.

MOSFET gate drive circuits.
MOSFET gate drive circuits.
Click for larger image.


How does applied science differ from theoretical science?

Answer: Applied science and theoretical science differ primarily in their focus and objectives:

Theoretical Science:

Focus: Theoretical science is concerned with developing and understanding fundamental principles and theories. It explores why and how natural phenomena occur at a theoretical level without necessarily applying these theories to practical problems immediately.

Goal: The primary aim is to expand human knowledge, formulate new theories, and explain observed phenomena through models, laws, or hypotheses.

Applied Science:

Focus: Applied science takes the theories and principles developed by theoretical science and uses them to create practical solutions, technologies, or to solve real-world problems.

Goal: The objective is to develop new technologies, products, processes, or to improve existing ones, thereby directly impacting society or industry.

Examples: Engineering, medicine, agriculture, and environmental science can involve applying scientific knowledge to design bridges, cure diseases, improve crop yields, or reduce pollution.

Outcome: Tangible products, innovations, or solutions like vaccines, smartphones, solar panels, or new materials like graphene.

Key Differences:

Purpose: Theoretical science aims at understanding for the sake of understanding, while applied science aims at understanding for the purpose of doing something practical with that knowledge.

Methodology: Theoretical scientists might use mathematical models, simulations, and thought experiments, whereas applied scientists often conduct experiments, field studies, or create prototypes.

Impact: Theoretical discoveries can take years or even centuries to have practical applications, whereas applied science typically seeks immediate or near-term benefits.

Interdependence: Applied science often relies on theoretical science for its foundation, but breakthroughs in applied science can also inspire new theoretical inquiries. For instance, the development of quantum computers (applied) is both inspired by and continues to inform quantum mechanics (theoretical).

Both branches are crucial for scientific advancement; theoretical science provides the foundation, and applied science brings those foundations into the real world, often leading to technological and societal progress.

Block diagram IR2101 MOSFET driver.
Block diagram IR2101 MOSFET driver.


Is electronics an applied science?

Answer: Yes, electronics is considered an applied science. Here's why:

Foundation in Physics: Electronics fundamentally relies on the principles of physics, particularly electromagnetism, semiconductors, and quantum mechanics. These scientific principles are applied to understand and manipulate the behavior of electrons in circuits.

Lewis: Note "electrons" the only thing that moves in electric-electronics circuits. Electronics also relies on chemistry.

Engineering Application: Electronics involves the practical application of this scientific knowledge to design, develop, test, and produce electronic components, devices, and systems. This includes everything from simple circuits to complex integrated circuits (ICs), computers, communication systems, and control systems.

Interdisciplinary Nature:

Electronics integrates concepts from various sciences and engineering disciplines:

Electrical Engineering: For circuit design and power management.

Materials Science: To develop and choose materials for semiconductor devices.

Computer Science: For digital electronics and programming microcontrollers.

Physics: For understanding the behavior of materials at atomic levels.

Research and Development: Much of electronics involves ongoing research to improve performance, efficiency, and miniaturization of electronic devices, which is inherently scientific in nature. This includes advancements in transistor technology, battery life, energy efficiency, and new materials like graphene.

Problem Solving: Electronics engineers apply scientific principles to solve practical problems, such as designing circuits that meet specific needs for speed, power consumption, or size.

Testing and Experimentation: The development of electronic devices often involves extensive testing and experimentation, which are key elements of the scientific method, to verify designs, improve reliability, and ensure compliance with standards.

Education: Educational programs in electronics often include a strong component of theoretical science alongside practical, hands-on application, reflecting its status as an applied science.

By taking scientific principles and applying them to create functional and innovative electronic technologies, electronics embodies the essence of applied science. It's where theory meets practice, leading to tangible products and systems that impact daily life and industry.

12-volt high voltage generator creates streamer through xenon flash tube.
12-volt high voltage generator creates streamer through xenon flash tube.
Click for a larger image.


Xenon photoflash tubes create a bright flash in cameras, strobe lights, etc., in conjunction with SCR, SIDAC, and DIAC circuits.

Caution: xenon flash tubes are high-voltage devices, often 300V DC.


What is the difference between electronics and electrical technicians?

Answer: Electronics Technicians and Electrical Technicians are roles that, while related, have distinct focuses within the technology and engineering fields:

Electronics Technician:

Focus: Primarily work with electronic components, circuits, and systems. This includes anything from consumer electronics like smartphones and televisions to more complex systems like medical devices, communication equipment, or control systems for machinery.

Key Responsibilities:

Assembly and Testing: Assemble electronic circuits, often using solder to connect components. They test circuits and systems to ensure they function correctly.

Troubleshooting: Diagnose and repair faults in electronic equipment. This might involve replacing or repairing components, adjusting calibrations, or reprogramming software within the device.

Maintenance: Perform preventive maintenance on electronic equipment to ensure longevity and reliability.

Design Support: Sometimes assist engineers in the design process by building prototypes, testing designs, or suggesting modifications based on practical assembly or performance issues.

Documentation: Maintain detailed records of tests, repairs, and modifications.

Skills and Qualifications:

Proficiency in reading schematics, understanding electronics theory, and using test equipment like oscilloscopes, multimeters, and logic analyzers.

Knowledge of semiconductor devices, microcontrollers, and digital vs. analog electronics.

Certifications might include those from the Electronics Technicians Association (ETA) or IPC for soldering standards.

Electrical Technician:

Focus: Work with electrical systems, which are generally larger scale and involve higher voltages than the circuits electronics technicians deal with. This includes wiring systems in buildings, industrial machinery, power distribution, and control systems.

Key Responsibilities:

Installation: Install electrical wiring, equipment, and fixtures according to blueprints and specifications.

Maintenance and Repair: Regular maintenance of electrical systems to prevent malfunctions. Repair or replace faulty electrical components or systems.

Safety Compliance: Ensure all work complies with electrical codes and safety standards to prevent hazards.

Testing: Use tools like voltmeters, ammeters, and ohmmeters to test electrical installations for functionality and safety.

Documentation: Keep records of maintenance schedules, inspections, and any modifications to electrical systems.

Skills and Qualifications:

Understanding of electrical theory, National Electrical Code (NEC), and safety practices.

Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and blueprints.

Certifications like those from the National Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (NJATC) for electricians or specific manufacturer certifications for industrial equipment.

Hands-on skills for working with power tools and electrical installation equipment.

Key Differences:

Scale and Voltage: Electrical technicians often work with higher voltages and larger systems, while electronics technicians focus on smaller, lower-voltage components and systems.

Environment: Electrical technicians might work more on-site or in industrial settings, while electronics technicians could be found in labs, repair shops, or manufacturing environments.

Skill Set: While there's overlap, electronics technicians delve into the minutiae of circuit design and component-level troubleshooting, whereas electrical technicians focus on the broader system, wiring, and power distribution.

Both roles require a strong technical foundation, problem-solving skills, and meticulous attention to detail, but their day-to-day tasks can be quite different based on the nature of the technology they interact with.


MOSFET transistor inverting level-shifter driving a power MOSFET.
MOSFET transistor inverting level-shifter driving a power MOSFET.
Click for larger image.


What does "academic ability" really mean in practical terms?

Answer: In practical terms, "academic ability" refers to a combination of skills and attributes that enable an individual to succeed in an academic environment. Here's what it typically encompasses:

Cognitive Skills:

Memory: Ability to retain and recall information.

Reasoning: Capacity to think logically, solve problems, and make inferences.

Critical Thinking: Ability to analyze information, evaluate arguments, and form judgments.

Learning Skills:

Study Habits: Effective methods for learning new material, including time management and organization. Comprehension: Understanding complex texts, concepts, and theories. Adaptability: Ability to learn across different subjects or adapt to new educational methods.

Language Skills:

Reading: Proficiency in reading with comprehension, speed, and retention. Writing: Ability to articulate thoughts clearly, coherently, and persuasively in written form. Communication: Verbal skills for discussing, debating, and presenting ideas.

Research Skills:

Information Literacy: Knowing how to find, evaluate, and use information from various sources effectively.

Research Methodology: Understanding how to conduct research, whether in science, humanities, or social sciences.

Quantitative Skills:

Math Proficiency: Ability to understand and apply mathematical concepts across various contexts.

Motivation and Persistence:

Self-Motivation: Intrinsic drive to learn and achieve academic goals.

Resilience: Ability to bounce back from academic setbacks and maintain effort over time.

Collaboration:

Teamwork: Working effectively with others on group projects or in collaborative learning environments.

In practice, academic ability is not just about inherent intelligence or aptitude but also about the strategies and habits one develops to navigate educational challenges. It's about how well someone can apply these skills to meet the demands of academic courses, which might vary significantly depending on the discipline. For example, academic ability in engineering might emphasize problem-solving and technical knowledge, while in literature, it might focus more on interpretation and creative expression.

Is electronics applied science?

Answer: Yes, electronics is considered an applied science. Applied science involves the application of existing scientific knowledge to practical problems, and electronics fits this description by:

Using Physics and Materials Science: Electronics relies on principles from physics, particularly in areas like electricity, magnetism, and semiconductor physics, to design and understand electronic components.

Circuit Design and Analysis: This involves applying mathematical models and theories from electrical engineering to design circuits that perform specific functions.

Technology Development: Electronics includes the development of devices like computers, smartphones, and various sensors, where scientific principles are directly applied to create functional technology.

Innovation and Problem Solving: Electronics engineers apply scientific methodologies to innovate, troubleshoot, and optimize electronic systems for real-world applications.

Thus, electronics is a clear example of applied science where theoretical knowledge is transformed into practical solutions, devices, and systems.


Example 650VDC chopper h-bridge circuit uses 4 IGBTs arranged with 2 pulse transformers with dual outputs.
Example 650VDC chopper h-bridge circuit uses 4 IGBTs
arranged with 2 pulse transformers with dual outputs.


How does an electronics technician differ from an engineer?

Answer: Here are the key differences between an electronics technician and an electronics engineer:

Education requirements:

Electronics Technician: Typically holds an associate's degree or a diploma from a technical or vocational school specializing in electronics or a related field. Some technicians might also gain qualifications through apprenticeships or on-the-job training.

Electronics Engineer: Usually holds a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, electronics engineering, or a related discipline. Engineers often continue their education with master's or doctoral degrees for advanced roles or research positions.

Role and Responsibilities:

Electronics Technician:

Installation and Maintenance: They are primarily involved in setting up, testing, repairing, and maintaining electronic equipment or systems.

Troubleshooting: Diagnose and fix issues in existing electronic systems.

Assembly: Can involve assembling electronic components based on engineering designs.

Technical Support: Might provide support to engineers or end-users, ensuring equipment functions correctly.

Electronics Engineer:

Design and Development: Engineers design new electronic products or systems, often from conceptualization through to prototype development.

Research: Engage in research to advance technology or improve existing systems.

Project Management: Oversee projects, including planning, budgeting, and coordination of teams.

Innovation: Focus on creating new technologies or applying existing technology in novel ways.

Skills

Electronics Technician: Strong hands-on skills with tools, test equipment, and soldering; Practical understanding of electronic circuits and components; Ability to read and interpret technical documents like schematics.

Electronics Engineer: Proficiency in complex mathematical and scientific principles relevant to electronics; Skills in software design for electronics, like programming microcontrollers; Advanced problem-solving and analytical skills to develop new technologies.

Career Path:

Technicians might advance to senior technician roles or specialize in areas like field service, but typically, their career focuses on practical application and maintenance.

Engineers can progress to roles like senior engineer, project manager, or even executive positions in engineering or R&D departments. They might also move into academia or consultancy.

Licensing and Certification:

Technicians might get certified in specific skills or equipment but do not usually require licensure.

Engineers in some jurisdictions might need to be licensed as Professional Engineers (PE), especially for signing off on projects that affect public safety.

In summary, while both roles are integral to the electronics industry, technicians focus more on the practical application and support of electronics, whereas engineers are involved in the design, innovation, and theoretical aspects of electronic systems.


The above material credit GROK the X AI with additions by Lewis Loflin.

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I've been a part-time adjunct professor at a local community college teaching electricity and electronics.

Today I do this for the shear love of electronics.

I have 45 years experience in electronics, from vacuum tubes to modern solid state and industrial controls. I tend to teach from a general science viewpoint.

Some sample projects. New 7/15/2024 on my electronics website.



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