Online Smu Natural Science Text Book

OBAC101: Natural Science
BACHELOR OF ARTS
SEMESTER 1
OBAC101
NATURAL SCIENCE
Unit: 4 – Uses of Science Across Multiple Fields and Industries 1
Unit 4
Uses of Science Across Multiple Fields
and Industries
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SL Fig No / Table SAQ /
Topic Page No
No / Graph Activity
1 Introduction - -
3
1.1 Objectives - -
2 Science and its Usage: An Introduction - 1 4
3 Uses Of Science in Agriculture - -
3.1 Contribution of Science and Technology in - -
Agriculture 5 - 10
3.2 Use of Modern Technology in Agriculture in - 2
India
4 Use Of Science and Technology in Transport - 3 11 - 15
5 Uses Of Science in Medicine - 4 16 - 18
6 Communication Science - -
6.1 Communication Science and Communication - -
Disorders
19 - 23
6.2 Importance of Science Communication - -
6.3 Innovation and Applications of Science and - 5
Technology in Communication
7 Summary - - 24 - 26
8 Glossary - - 27
9 Terminal Questions - - 28
10 Answers - -
10.1 Self-Assessment Questions - - 29 - 31
10.2 Terminal Questions - -
11 References - - 32

1. INTRODUCTION
Science finds applications across multiple fields, bringing about significant advancements and
benefits. In medicine, it leads to breakthroughs in treatments, diagnostics, and healthcare
practices, improving patient outcomes. Technology and engineering benefit from scientific
research, resulting in innovations like computers, smartphones, and efficient infrastructure.
Science helps improve crop productivity, disease-resistant plants, and farming techniques in
agriculture. Environmental conservation relies on science to understand and address ecological
challenges, promoting sustainable practices and mitigating climate change. Space exploration and
astronomy rely on scientific knowledge to explore the universe and expand our understanding.
Energy and transportation benefit from scientific advancements, leading to cleaner energy
sources and efficient transportation systems. Communication and information technologies thrive
due to scientific research, enabling faster and more reliable networks. Science's applications span
numerous fields, transforming our lives and shaping the future of society. This unit will discuss the
usage of science in agriculture and the role of science and technology in the transport system. In
addition, it will explain the role of science in medicine and communication science.
1.1. Objectives
After studying this unit, you will be able to:
Discuss the usage of science in agriculture
Explain the role of science and technology in transport
Describe the role of science in medicine
Analyse the impact of science in communication science

2. SCIENCE AND ITS USAGE: AN INTRODUCTION

Humanity has benefited much from science. Man, a logical entity, has seen faults or challenges
in his environment, leading to numerous discoveries worldwide. The world has advanced to a
better level due to the advantages of science, so people may observe the applications of science
even before they are born. Numerous advances in science have made our lives more convenient
and comfortable.
Science is a systematic and evidence-based approach to understanding the natural world. It

involves observation, experimentation, and analysis to develop knowledge and explanations for
various phenomena. The practical applications of science are vast and impact numerous aspects
of our lives. There are a few advantages of science in several fields, namely transportation,
communication, medicine, agriculture and construction, which are discussed later in this unit.
Science also plays a vital role in environmental conservation and sustainability. Through scientific
research, we understand the impact of human activities on the environment and can develop
strategies to mitigate climate change, protect ecosystems, and promote sustainable resource
management. Furthermore, science contributes to our understanding of the universe, from the
fundamental laws of physics to the exploration of outer space. It fuels our curiosity and expands
our knowledge about the world we inhabit.
Science is an indispensable tool that enhances our lives in countless ways. Embracing science
and its findings is essential for progress and improving the quality of life for individuals and society
as a whole.
SELF-ASSESSMENT QUESTIONS – 1
1. Fill in the blanks with appropriate words.

(a) Science has created, constructed, and discovered a variety of fast-moving
____________ methods that are highly beneficial to us in our daily lives, such as
trains, automobiles, boats and aeroplanes.
(b) Time and _______________ have been mastered by humans.
2. State whether the following statements are true or false.
(a) Humanity has benefited much from science.
(b) Improved seed varieties are used to increase agricultural productivity.

3. USES OF SCIENCE IN AGRICULTURE

Agriculture's expansion over the years has aided in the development of civilisations. Before the
development of agriculture, humans spent most of their time looking for food, going on wild animal
hunts, and harvesting natural herbs. People first discovered how to cultivate root and cereal crops
approximately 11,500 years ago, and a large section of the population on the planet became
dependent upon agriculture around 2000 years ago. Along with agricultural practices, humans
started raising livestock for herding and breeding. Agriculture made it possible for people to
produce food in excess, which freed them up to work on jobs unrelated to farming.
The advancement of agriculture was extremely gradual for thousands of years. Improved farming
instruments made of bone, bronze, stone, and iron were created over time. Along with developing
new preservation methods, they also started creating clay pots and other containers for
transporting and preparing food.
In Mesopotamia, farmers created irrigation systems around 5500 BCE. Farmers could establish
themselves in regions that were previously considered unsuitable for agriculture by diverting water
from streams onto their crops. People organised themselves and collaborated to create and
maintain better irrigation systems in Mesopotamia, and subsequently in Kemet and China.
Early farmers also created better varieties of plants. For instance, a new wheat variety emerged
in South Asia and Kemet circa 6000 BCE. Its hulls were simpler to remove. It was used to make
bread.
The Romans adopted the greatest agricultural practices of the tribes they conquered as they grew
their empire. They documented the farming practices they saw in Africa and Asia in manuals and
modified them for use in Europe.
Additionally, the Chinese adopted farming equipment and practices from neighbouring civilisations.
Vietnam-originating rice allowed farmers to harvest numerous crops in a single growing season
since it matured swiftly. This rice gained popularity swiftly across China. Farmers in medieval
Europe frequently planted in open fields. Three fields would be planted: one in the spring, one in
the autumn and one would be left fallow. This technique increased crop productivity by preserving
soil nutrients.

Explorers brought new plants and agricultural items into Europe in the 15th and 16th centuries.
They brought back coffee, tea, and Indigofera tinctoria, a plant used to manufacture blue dye,
indigo, from Asia. They brought back crops, including tobacco, potatoes, tomatoes, corn (maize),
beans and peanuts (Arachis hypogaea) from the Americans. Some of these crops extended
people's diets and became mainstays.
Use of equipment
A key phase of agricultural progress in Europe and its colonies started in the early 1700s.
Introducing new agricultural technology, such as the cotton gin and house-drawn seed drill,
significantly enhanced food output in these nations. Farmers in Asia, Australia, Africa, and South
America kept using traditional agricultural practices; therefore, most of the world remained
unaffected by these advancements.
Most United States and European farmers used petrol and electricity to power machinery by the
late 1950s. Draught animals and steam-powered equipment had been replaced by tractors. In
every stage of crop and livestock management, farmers used machinery.
Early in the 20th century, farms in Germany and Japan started using electricity as a power source.
Most farms in the United States and other highly industrialised nations had electricity by 1960.
Electricity provided lighting for agricultural structures and operated gear, including water pumps,
milking systems, and feeding apparatus. Electricity now regulates the whole atmosphere in
henhouses and cattle stables.
Farmers have historically employed various techniques to safeguard their crops against pests and
illnesses. To manage insects, farmers sprayed herb-based poison on crops, hand-picked insects
off plants, created robust varieties of crops, and rotated crops. Nowadays, practically all farmers
use pesticides to manage pests, particularly in highly industrialised countries. Insects, animals
including rabbits and mice, weeds, and disease-causing germs, viruses, and fungi are all
considered ‘pests’. Chemical usage has caused a sharp fall in agricultural yields and prices.
Farmers have used natural fertilisers such as manure, wood ash, pulverised bones, fish or fish
parts, and bird and bat droppings, known as guano, for thousands of years to replace or increase
soil nutrients.
Scientists learned which elements—nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium—were most important

for plant development in the early 1800s. Later, these components were added to a fertiliser that

was produced in Europe and the United States. Due to the significantly higher crop yields
produced by chemical fertilisers, including nitrates and phosphates, many farmers now utilise them.
Scientists in the 1950s and 1960s produced new high-yield wheat and rice strains. This is referred
to as the Green Revolution. Scientists discovered that they could rearrange genes and add new
traits to increase disease resistance, productivity, and other desired traits in crops and animals.
These genetically modified organisms (GMOs or GM foods) are already pervasive in the
extensively industrialised diets of all countries. Scientists can change the DNA of animals, plants,
and bacteria through biotechnology. Transgenic organisms are GMOs with DNA or genetic
material from other species.
3.1. Contribution of Science and Technology in Agriculture

The production, quality, efficiency, and competitiveness of agriculture have significantly grown as
a result of the use of science and technology. This has modernised rural and agricultural
communities, assuring food security, reducing social scarcity, and boosting the revenue of farmers
and traders.
Mechanising agricultural production, protecting crops and animals, boosting social fertility for
greater crop yields, creating disease-resistant crops and animal species, and many other
advancements in the agricultural sector have all been made possible due to science and
technology.
1. Mechanization of agricultural production: Mechanization greatly improves the design and
manufacture of agricultural machinery and implements. Ploughs and harrows are now used
to cultivate the soil. The farm currently uses tractor-driven equipment, including planters,
harvesters, etc. In addition, common farm implements like cutlasses and hoes are being
improved for efficiency.
2. Improved seed structure, increased crop and livestock productivity: The use of high-
yield and high-quality seeds, climate change adaptation, use of mechanisation, and
deployment of advanced technical procedures are all examples of how science and
technology are increasingly being applied. The relatively high use of certified seeds (or
similar) for various crops in horticulture has boosted output and production effectiveness. In
animal husbandry, livestock subjects were restructured, and priority order was clearly defined

in terms of main products from raising pigs, chickens, beef cattle, and dairy cows. The
productivity of some major livestock has improved significantly.
3. Protection of crops and livestock: Scientists have developed a variety of agrochemicals
to manage pests and illnesses that affect crops and animals. Farms utilise insecticides,
pesticides, and fungicides to prevent infestations of their crops and livestock. Herbicides are
used to manage weeds, whereas fungicides are used to combat fungal disease in maize.
Veterinarians care for the animals on the farm, and vaccinations guarantee that they are
protected against disease.
4. Increasing soil fertility: Inorganic chemical compounds effectively replenish soil minerals
by soil scientists. Minerals can be replenished to remove over-cropping from the soil using
organic manures and artificial fertilisers. Crop rotation is one of the scientific agriculture
strategies that researchers have developed to enhance farmer productivity.
5. Use of advanced digital technologies in agriculture: Vietnamese Good Agricultural
Practices (VietGAP), worldwideGAP, and other innovative environmentally friendly
manufacturing methods are becoming increasingly well-known. Production and growing
methods adapted to climate change have also been advocated.
3.2. Use of Modern Technology in Agriculture in India

The use of modern technologies in farming and agricultural practices is significant. Agriculture is
continuously improving due to the application of analytical tools, agricultural advances, and the
rise of digital technologies. The following is a discussion of some of the ways that contemporary
technology is being used to improve the agricultural sector:
1. Climate/weather protection through artificial intelligence: The application of artificial
intelligence (AI) in agriculture is a significant development. Data collection is made possible
by modern tools and equipment built on Al, aiding in precision farming and well-informed
decision-making. Drones, remote sensors, and satellites continuously collect data on the
weather in and around fields, giving farmers crucial knowledge on temperature, rainfall, soil,
humidity, and other factors.
Al, however, encounters delayed acceptance in a nation like India, where obstacles like
substandard farming, dispersed land ownership, and other issues exist. But there is no
denying that technology based on aluminium can increase output exponentially while
bringing accuracy to large-scale farming.

2. Resilient crops developed via biotechnology: Agriculture refers to a broad range of

technologies, including conventional breeding techniques, genetic engineering, and the
production of microorganisms for agriculture. Resilient crops are created using biotechnology.
Generally, genetic engineering improves animals and crops by identifying and manipulating
genes to boost crop resistance to pests. High-yielding varieties are also created via the
application of genetic engineering.
For farmers and final consumers, the application of biotechnology in agriculture has had
several positive effects. Although certain contentious methods have caused opposition to the
use of biotechnology, there is a question of whether SAFE biotechnology is crucial to the
future of agriculture, given the changing environment and rising population.
3. Agricultural sensors: Smart farming is becoming a reality in India due to communications

technology, where sensors provide farmers with information so they can monitor and
overcome environmental obstacles. These wirelessly connected sensors have many uses,
including pinpointing precise locations, measuring airflow, identifying nutrients, and analysing
soil composition and moisture content. Farmers may save money using sensors on labour,
insecticides, and fertiliser applications. They enable farmers to produce more with fewer
natural resources. Big data is used to control the supply chain and improve agricultural
production.
4. Use of data for decision-making and problem-solving: It is being expanded through its
collection, compilation, and subsequent processing. The benefits of using big data in smart
farming are expected to spread across the whole supply chain and the markets. Agriculture
is expanding and is influenced by a wide range of factors.
As a result, complicated data is being gathered and used more often, which requires effective
interpretation and management. Data may come from marketplaces, supplier networks,
social media, or sensor/machine data collected in the field. Big data is transforming
agriculture, which impacts agricultural yield, supply chain management, yield forecast, etc.
5. Yes to monitoring: Monitoring is necessary for large-scale livestock management, and

using chips and body sensors can aid in preventing disease outbreaks. Body sensors and
chips assess essential data and signs that might identify disease early and stop herd infection.

Similarly, ultrasounds may be used to assess the quality of meat. This helps in maintaining
and raising the meat's quality.
6. Smartphone-based crop irrigation system monitoring and control: Crop irrigation
systems have been monitored and controlled because of mobile technologies. Farmers no
longer need to go to each field to regulate their irrigation systems due to new technology,
which allows them to do it from laptops and cell phones.
The moisture levels existing at certain depths in the soil can be determined via underground
moisture sensors.

(a) _________________ made it possible for people to produce food in excess, which
freed them up to work on jobs unrelated to farming.
(b) Farmers in ____________ created straightforward irrigation systems around 5500
BCE.
(a) Explorers brought new plants and agricultural items into Europe in the 17th and
18th centuries.
(b) Scientists produced new strains of high-yield wheat and rice in the 1950s and
1960s. This is referred to as the Green Revolution.

4. USE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY IN

TRANSPORT
All aspects of civilisation, including transportation, have altered due to science and technology.
The need and appeal of travel have always prompted efforts to raise the standard and
effectiveness of all modes of transportation. The primary goals of a transport system are as follows:
• To cut CO2 emissions through better driving
• To decrease accidents and improve driving safety
• To reduce expenses and higher performance
With the application of science and technology, the transportation system has significantly altered
or improved in recent years. This is discussed as follows:
1. Uses in airlines: Recent technological developments have changed every aspect of the
aviation industry, including:
(i) Buying tickets: Using Internet portals to compare prices and make timely reservations has
made purchasing tickets easier. Even selecting the most comfortable seats on a specific
plane is possible with the help of the Internet. Additionally, boarding cards may be stored
on a smartphone and utilised without paper once the ticket has been purchased.
(ii) Security features: Since the dawn of the twenty-first century, security has grown to be a
significant aspect of air travel, with technology being essential to its efficiency. These
advancements in transportation technology have concentrated on the identification of
passengers through immigration as well as the detection of narcotics, weapons, and
contraband. Airport security has implemented 3D full-body scanners and other high-tech
procedures to stop smuggling prohibited items onboard.
Technology like biometric security, which uses eye tracking, face recognition, and
fingerprinting to verify an individual's identification at borders, has started to play a larger
role in border security systems. Like e-Visas, passports with electronic chips enable
governments to accurately trace citizens' travels and eliminate the cumbersome manual
passport stamping procedure.
(iii) Amenities on board: The number of televisions on board has increased, and now each
seat has a screen with a full spectrum of multimedia. Also, some flights offer the facility of
the Internet and headphones.

2. Uses of science and technology in train transport: In countries like India, the train is the
most significant mode of transportation. The higher speeds provided by high-speed railroads
have historically been the most evident advantage of rail transportation. In Japan, a network
of bullet trains is a prime example of a high-speed train.
(i) Bullet trains: Bullet trains are high-speed trains that rapidly and pleasantly transport
people throughout Japan, connecting cities nationwide. Compared to all the essential pre-
and post-flight operations, the bullet train is frequently just as quick and convenient as flying.
Since the Japanese Shinkansen is an inventive design, it encourages comparable
strategies in other nations like India.
(ii) Maglev engineering: Many countries are considering the new technology known as
Maglev to achieve even faster speeds since they are dissatisfied with the present high-
speed trains. Maglev trains employ several strong magnets to levitate and move the train
along the route rather than an engine and regular rails. Maglev trains may travel more
quickly and smoothly than conventional trains since they have no moving components.
The Shanghai Maglev train has a top speed of 267 mph, whereas the fastest bullet trains
in Japan now reach 224 mph. Given that the current highest train speed of 374 mph belongs
to the Chuo Shinkansen Maglev train network presently being created, Maglev is widely
regarded as the future of rail transportation.
(iii)Better journeys: The focus has been on the passengers' enjoyment and amusement, not
only the speeds. Like airlines, railroads have seen a significant transformation in recent
years regarding how simple it is to plan, purchase tickets, and reserve seats.
The Internet has had a significant impact on passenger behaviour. Passengers may remain
in contact and watch material on their numerous gadgets while travelling by train due to the
availability of Wi-Fi. You may stay connected even on trains without WiFi with portable Wi-Fi
devices.
3. Uses of science in car transport: As science and technology have advanced in several
domains, cars have transformed. The manner that automobiles are powered, operated,
accessed, driven, and comfortable have all significantly improved in recent years.
(i) Ride-sharing applications: While ride-sharing applications have disrupted the market and
become a popular option in large cities, taxis have always been necessary for individuals

wishing to travel by automobile. Through their mobile applications, services like Uber and
Lyft enable on-demand carpooling by connecting drivers and passengers. Thanks to rating
systems and the ability to follow your car with the driver's information, ride-sharing is
frequently considered, resulting in a better customer experience.
Despite being perceived as handy, research by the UC Davis Institute of Transportation

Studies revealed that rather than private automobile trips being replaced by ride-sharing
services, consumers frequently use them instead of public transportation, cycling, or
walking. Naturally, this causes more traffic and needs to be more ecologically friendly.
(ii) Hybrid and electric vehicles: Electric and hybrid vehicles are becoming increasingly
common to lessen humanity's dependency on fossil fuels. While hybrid automobiles utilise
a gasoline engine to power their electric motor, these vehicles use an electric motor and
rechargeable battery. These cars are usually regarded as eco-friendly since they produce
fewer greenhouse gas emissions.
(iii)Self-driving cars: This development is the one that is still developing. To get a passenger
to their location, these vehicles use a variety of technical information inputs to manage
traffic and road networks. When properly implemented, it is believed to provide a wide
range of advantages, including improved traffic flow and a decrease in the incidence of
accidents. Of course, this strategy also benefits those unable to drive or have mobility
challenges because it gives them easier access to transportation. Self-driving technology
still raises several questions, including potential software bugs and pedestrian collisions.
Technologies for transport revolution

This is discussed as follows:
1. Internet of Things: The Internet of Things is predicated on the idea that all objects and
people can be networked together. The networks that were convicted may impact various
aspects of our daily driving.
(i) Route planning: GPS services are contacted by sensors in the car to find the best path,
which is then presented on a head-up display to guide the driver physically.
(ii) Accident prevention: Drivers are informed via sensors of the whereabouts of other
vehicles on the road to avoid collisions. To prevent an accident, cars can even override
driver controls.

(iii) Safety: Several sensors included in the seat belt can monitor a driver's physiological
indications and determine whether or not they are tired or drunk. The car becomes
unusable if the driver fails any of the sensor-performed tests.
2. Autonomous cars: Autonomous vehicles are becoming a reality due to self-driving vehicles
like the Google Car and Tesla. Autonomous vehicle technology is expected to advance and
eventually replace human drivers as a safer option with additional economic and
environmental advantages. Cars may be able to achieve their intended fuel efficiency with
less gas use and lower ownership costs if human control is removed from the vehicle.
3. Lightweight vehicle materials: Research on lightweight materials aims to move away from
expensive iron and steel. Carbon fibre construction and magnesium-aluminium alloys are
most likely replacements for these metals.
4. On-demand car services: With the advent of applications that allow users to summon
vehicles to their location at any time, businesses like Ola, Uber, and Lyft have significantly
altered how people in big cities use transportation. These services raise significant legal and
moral issues, prompting the government to review authorisations.
5. Hyperloop: SpaceX's Hyperloop is the most ambitious of all the technologies transforming
transportation. The idea is a pneumatic tube that propels vehicles at extremely high speeds
using a series of linear induction motors and compressors. Passengers may travel the 350-
mile distance between Los Angeles and San Francisco in less than 30 minutes using the first
proposed Hyperloop. People's perspectives on transport have changed significantly due to
new technologies. A new transportation revolution might be sparked by introducing wholly
new technology, such as the Hyperloop. In contrast, little adjustments to current
transportation strategies could significantly impact the near future.


(a) In countries like India, the _______________ is the most significant mode of
transportation.
(b) ________________ trains may travel more quickly and smoothly than conventional
trains since they have no moving components.
(a) The need and appeal of travel have always prompted efforts to raise the standard
and effectiveness of all modes of transportation.
(b) Using Internet portals to compare prices and make timely reservations has made
purchasing tickets more difficult.

5. USES OF SCIENCE IN MEDICINE

Science and technology are changing every aspect of our lives. The adoption of science and
technology in healthcare over a few decades has led to better diagnosis and treatment of patients.
Consequently, it improved the quality of life over time and saved many lives. Some of the benefits
are discussed as follows:
1. Digitalization of medical records: Electronic medical records have replaced traditional,
antiquated paper-based medical records. This enables people to quickly and easily access
their medical records. This results in improved patient care. Examining patients who are not
local is incredibly helpful for doctors.
2. Better public health: Electronic health records (EHRs) provide all clinical research
professionals with invaluable training. This helps them come up with cures for common health
problems. An efficient and speedy implementation of preventive actions is made possible by
a standardised healthcare IT system, which also helps to provide insightful information about
the progression of a health problem.
3. Eases execution of tasks: Medical coders and billers' lives have been made significantly
easier by using electronic medical records. Compared to traditional paper-based approaches,
entering data into an electronic system takes less time. Additionally, it reduces the likelihood
of mistakes when patient personal information, financial information, and medical data are
recorded. Medical coders can work from home since they have digital access to patient
records. This boosts a system's productivity and effectiveness.
4. Lower healthcare costs: The entire cost of outpatient care has dramatically decreased by
about 3% due to the switch from paper-based to electronic medical records.
5. Cloud storage: Massive amounts of medical data may be processed and accessed more
easily by being stored in the cloud. This storage space requires less investment and is safer
and more secure than maintaining paper-based medical records that have the potential of
becoming stolen, misplaced or damaged. Patients and healthcare professionals worldwide
can access and use the data stored in the cloud using web-enabled devices and applications.
The following advantages have come about as a result of cloud storage of medical data:
• Lowers healthcare costs
• Predicts epidemics

• Prevents preventable deaths

• Improves quality of life and care
6. Real-time patient data: The focus of healthcare has always been and still is patient care.
Through the development of new devices, medications, and therapies, scientific and
technological developments have generally improved and increased the reliability of patient
care. Medical personnel can now use tablets and smartphones to record patient data in real-
time. Important patient information may now be centrally stored and quickly retrieved,
including lab results, a record of his/her vital signs, and other pertinent data.
7. Fast and seamless patient-doctor interaction: When a patient wanted to see a doctor in
the past, they had to schedule an appointment over the phone, interact with a receptionist,
and sometimes endure lengthy wait times. These days, a patient may arrange a consultation
without even leaving his/her sofa using smartphone applications or even virtually!
Startups around the world are transforming the ways patients connect with their doctors. As
an illustration, the content creation tool Pharma Phorum featured a US-based firm that
developed the HoyDoc app, enabling patients and clinicians to view their medical records in
English and Spanish.
8. Surgeries by robots: Robotic-assisted surgeries have gained popularity and are
increasingly being used in various medical procedures. They offer several potential
advantages over traditional surgical techniques. One significant benefit of robot-assisted
surgeries is enhanced precision. Robots are designed to provide precise and steady
movements, reducing the risk of human error during delicate procedures. This precision can
improve surgical outcomes, including reduced blood loss, smaller incisions, and faster patient
recovery time.
9. Easier prediction of outbreaks: Big data and AI are crucial in the healthcare sector. Big
data is a collection of data that has a large volume and is constantly expanding. Medical
personnel can employ AI-based data analytics and predictive algorithms to understand and
investigate various diseases accurately. An unprecedented increase in pneumonia cases in
Wuhan, China, was reported by BlueDot, a Toronto-based artificial intelligence company that
employs machine learning to track infectious disease epidemics globally. Clients of BlueDot
include various government hospitals and businesses. Later, this developed into what is
today often referred to as COVID-19. In the future, healthcare technology can be extremely

important in identifying patterns and spotting outbreaks earlier so that preventative measures
can be taken.
10. Medical technologies: Improved medical technologies have emerged due to numerous
recent ground-breaking scientific and technological developments. For example,
(i) 3-D printing: Many industries have used 3-D printing for some time. In terms of medicine,
it develops implants or even surgical joints. It is also frequently used in prosthetics since it
may provide perfectly matched limbs that provide more comfort and mobility.
(ii) Artificial organs: Like 3-D printing, but for actual and operational organs, the patient’s
immune system will not be rejected. Also called bio-printing, it is an upcoming area in
technology in healthcare that may save millions of patients every year.
(iii) Wearable medical devices: Their potential for use in healthcare was highlighted as they
started out as a fitness tracker to monitor heart rate and pace. Wearable health technology
can identify cardiovascular irregularities earlier and avert serious diseases.

(a) ___________________ provide all professionals who conduct clinical research
with invaluable training.
(b) _________________ is a collection of data that has a large volume and is
constantly expanding.
(a) The entire cost of outpatient care has dramatically decreased by about 5% due to
the switch from paper-based to electronic medical records.
(b) Massive amounts of medical data may be processed and accessed more easily
by being stored in the cloud.

6. COMMUNICATION SCIENCE
Communication science, also known as communication studies or communication research, is a
multidisciplinary field that explores human communication's intricate and fundamental processes.
It delves into the study of how individuals, groups, and societies exchange information, create
meaning, and establish relationships through various channels and mediums. By examining the
intricacies of verbal and nonverbal communication and the influence of media and technology,
communication science seeks to unravel the complexities of human interaction and its impact on
society, providing valuable insights into effective communication strategies and fostering a deeper
understanding of our interconnected world.
It explores how individuals, groups, and societies exchange information, create meaning, and
establish relationships through various forms of communication, including verbal and nonverbal
cues, written texts, visual media, and digital platforms. Communication science employs a
multidisciplinary approach, drawing insights from psychology, sociology, linguistics, anthropology,
and media studies. Researchers in this field analyse communication patterns, message encoding
and decoding, communication channels, and the social, cultural, and psychological factors that
influence communication dynamics.
6.1. Communication Science and Communication Disorders

Communication science is the study of the reason behind communication disorders. Work in the
field involves using various techniques, methods, and treatments to assist individuals with
communication impairments, allowing them to communicate at a functional level in day-to-day life.
Communication science also investigates the normal development of speech, language, and
hearing and how an impairment can affect a person’s well-being and lifespan. Students who study
communication science learn about specific disorders and the accepted interventions and
strategies particular to each one, such as how to treat stuttering or help someone with a mouth
abnormality pronounce certain sounds.
Additionally, communication science analyses the underlying causes of many disorders that
interfere with normal human speech-language functionality. There are essentially three main goals
for communication disorder treatments:
• To help children develop and improve their communication abilities

• To help children develop coping strategies and alternative communication options, enabling
them to compensate for times when their communication abilities are insufficient
• To help children get used to use and practice their communication skills and coping strategies
in real-world environments such as home, at school, and with friends
Communication treatment may include one or more of the following types of interventions:
• Speech therapy helps children learn new vocabulary, organise their thoughts and beliefs,
and correct grammatical or word errors.
• Behaviour therapy is designed to increase children's use of desirable communication
behaviours, decrease their unwanted problem behaviours and use of maladaptive coping
strategies, and promote their development of useful interpersonal skills.
• Environmental modification can also be an important part of treatment for communication
disorders. For example, children with communication disorders can be given extra time
during school-based discussions or oral test situations to more adequately formulate
responses.
Success rates for communication disorder treatments based on these methods are typically
reported to be high, with around 70% of treated children benefiting.
6.2. Importance of Science Communication

Science communication is an umbrella term for the practice of informing and inspiring the public
about scientific knowledge. Professionals use a range of science communication tools, from
documentaries, books, and podcasts to mass media journalism and public talks. These days,
social media posts, cartoons, and newsletters have become an increasingly popular form of
science communication. The importance of science communication is immense in today’s world,
as clear from the following points:
1. To address urgent issues: As we have seen in the pandemic and climate change,
communicating science is critical to solving the world's most urgent issues.
2. To educate the public: Scientific education is a good thing in its own right, and plenty of
communication science is produced simply to educate the public. Science education can also
aim to increase public engagement on the most critical issues of our time.
3. To educate decision makers: Educating those involved in the decision-making process is
critical. While we sometimes like to imagine — or hope — that our leaders are informed about

the most important issues we face, the truth is rather less inspiring. In most countries, leaders
have, well, mixed knowledge about science.
4. To inspire the next generation of scientists: For the future of our economies,
environments, and societies, the next generation of talented people must embrace a career
in the sciences (including social sciences). The best way to do this is to inspire them with
excellent public science communication.
5. To inspire local communities: Science communicators must engage with their local
communities.
6.3. Innovation and Applications of Science and Technology in

Communication
Some of the innovations and applications of science and technology are discussed as follows:
1. Social media platforms: Social media platforms allow people to create personal pages, post
profile images and updates on their lives, and create a friend list of people who can see their
updates. The first social media platform was 6 Degrees, which was launched in 1997.
MySpace was launched in 2003 and became the first mainstream social media platform. It
was the world's most popular social media platform between 2005 and 2008.
Facebook took over from MySpace as the most used social media platform and remains
used by billions worldwide today. Twitter is another large social media site that quickly
shares short thoughts with people around the web. Major corporations, public figures and
governments use Twitter to quickly share updates and in-the-moment responses to sensitive
issues of public importance.
2. Blogs: Blogs are personal websites where people can publish or ‘log’ information for others
with an internet connection to read all around the globe. A blog is usually a personal website
where someone shares regular long-form posts about their lives or hobbies. More
professional or commercialised blogs are run by media organisations, companies seeking
publicity, or professional bloggers who monetise through advertising or affiliate marketing.
3. Vlogs: Vlogs are video logs. They emerged as an extension of blogging after increased
bandwidths enabled regular people to post videos online. The typical vlog style involves the
vlogger using a handheld camera or camera on their computer monitor to record themselves
speaking. Some vlogs, however, are high production with complex graphics and recording
teams.

4. Live video stream: Live video is an extension of vlogging that has responded to online
content consumers’ needs for immediacy and authenticity. Live video was integrated into the
YouTube video-sharing platform in April 2011. Competitor network Facebook introduced
Facebook Live in August 2015.
An important element of a live video stream is the capacity for a video to be played, paused
and rewound in real-time. A video is not uploaded as a standalone data packet that can only
be viewed once. Instead, the data is downloaded, buffered and played in real-time.
5. Conferencing and live lecture technology: Sophisticated conferencing technology helps
workplaces communicate across long distances. Today, live conferencing technology uses
live video alongside complex speaker systems. Microphone and speaker capacities allow
anyone in a room to speak clearly to people on the other end of the conference call.
6. Group wikis: A wiki is a website where anyone can edit and add content. The most famous
Wiki is, of course, Wikipedia. Wikis allow collaborative crowdsourcing of information. This
can help members of the wikis to amass a lot of information in a short period. All users can
easily access the collective knowledge stored on wikis, allowing the creation of a ‘hive mind’.
Hive minds are knowledge or information stored and accessed by a community.
7. Group forums: A group forum allows people to post questions and answers for others to
respond to. Many forums are sorted by topics, such as Reddit, allowing people with shared
interests to communicate. Group forums are also commonly used in education, where online
schools have students respond to a stimulus question each week.
8. Tablet computers: The sleek, modern tablet computers that we enjoy today emerged as a
new technological innovation around 2008-2010 with the emergence of big players like
Android and Apple into the tablet computer market.
Key challenges included creating small, affordable touch-screen technology and compact,
long-life battery packs. Tablets are now widely used as a portable device that fits in the
market between a smartphone that is carried in the pocket, and a laptop that usually requires
its own bag.
9. Podcasts: Podcasts are packets of audio information that can be uploaded and stored on
cloud technology, ready for anyone to download and listen to, at will. A podcast can be
automatically downloaded onto a smartphone so that fans of a podcast series can get the
latest episodes at will. Podcasts emerged out of radio technology.

10. Wearable technology: Wearable technologies help make communication easier than ever.
Wearable technology is any information technology that is carried on the body to help us take
a step toward trans-humanism. Examples include:
(i) Smart watches allow people to use voice commands to control them.
(ii) Exercise bracelets and other wearable health trackers tap into people’s bodies to
measure vital signs and sleep rhythms.
(iii) Smart glasses can integrate augmented reality into a person’s everyday life.
11. Smart speakers: Smart speakers are computerised personal assistants placed around
offices and homes to help people complete tasks hands-free. They are usually activated
using a hot word, like ‘Hey Computer’ or ‘OK Google’. Smart speakers can hear people from
distances, allowing people to use the speakers while still going about their business. Once
activated by a hot word, the user asks the device questions or provides voice commands
such as ‘turn out the lights’, ‘add this to the shopping list’ or ‘play a song’.
12. Email: While email has been around since at least the 1970s, it makes this list because of
its continuing relevance in the 21st Century. Email, in fact, outdates the Internet by several
decades. Early emails were sent via closed-circuit LAN networks in government and
university databases. The first email using the ‘@’ symbol to direct the message to the correct
servers was used in 1971. Perhaps most emblematic of email’s increased relevance to our
lives is the growing rate of ‘paperless billing’. Whereas once we would have received bills via
post, most business-to-consumer (B2C) billing and invoicing is done via email today. The
email has also rendered alternatives like Fax almost irrelevant in the 21st Century.

(a) _____________________ is the study of the reason behind communication
disorders.
(b) _________________ helps children learn new vocabulary, organise their thoughts
and beliefs, and correct grammatical or word errors.
(a) Behaviour therapy is designed to increase children's use of desirable
communication behaviour.
(b) The first social media platform was 6 Degrees, which was launched in 1999.

7. SUMMARY
• Humanity has benefited much from science. Man, a logical entity, has seen faults or
challenges in his environment, leading to numerous discoveries worldwide.
• Science is a systematic and evidence-based approach to understanding the natural world. It
involves observation, experimentation, and analysis to develop knowledge and explanations
for various phenomena.
• Science also plays a vital role in environmental conservation and sustainability. Through
scientific research, we understand the impact of human activities on the environment and
can develop strategies to mitigate climate change, protect ecosystems, and promote
sustainable resource management.
• Science is an indispensable tool that enhances our lives in countless ways. Embracing
science and its findings is essential for progress and improving the quality of life for
individuals and society as a whole.
• Agriculture's expansion over the years has aided civilisations' development. Before the
development of agriculture, humans spent most of their time looking for food, going on wild
animal hunts, and harvesting natural herbs.
• . Along with agricultural practices, humans started raising livestock for herding and breeding.
Agriculture made it possible for people to produce food in excess, which freed them up to
work on jobs unrelated to farming.
• In Mesopotamia, farmers created irrigation systems around 5500 BCE. Farmers could
establish themselves in regions that were previously considered unsuitable for agriculture by
diverting water from streams onto their crops.
• Additionally, the Chinese adopted farming equipment and practices from neighbouring
civilisations.
• Explorers brought new plants and agricultural items into Europe in the 15th and 16th
centuries. They brought back coffee, tea, and Indigofera tinctoria, a plant used to
manufacture blue dye, indigo, from Asia.
• In Europe and its colonies, a key phase of agricultural progress started in the early 1700s.
Introducing new agricultural technology, such as the cotton gin and house-drawn seed drill,
significantly enhanced food output in these nations.

• Early in the 20th century, farms in Germany and Japan started using electricity as a power
source. Most farms in the United States and other highly industrialised nations had electricity
by 1960.
• New strains of high-yield wheat and rice were produced by scientists in the 1950s and 1960s.
This is referred to as the Green Revolution. Scientists discovered that they could rearrange
genes and add new traits to increase disease resistance, productivity, and other desired traits
in crops and animals.
• The production, quality, efficiency, and competitiveness of agriculture have significantly
grown as a result of the use of science and technology.
• The use of modern technologies in farming and agricultural practices is significant.
Agriculture is continuously improving due to the application of analytical tools, agricultural
advances, and the rise of digital technologies.
• The need and appeal of travel have always prompted efforts to raise the standard and
effectiveness of all modes of transportation.
• In countries like India, the train is the most significant mode of transportation. The higher
speeds provided by high-speed railroads have historically been the most evident advantage
of rail transportation.
• Science and technology are changing every aspect of our lives. The adoption of science and
technology in healthcare over a few decades has led to better diagnosis and treatment of
patients.
• Communication science, also known as communication studies or communication research,
is a multidisciplinary field exploring human communication's intricate and fundamental
processes.
• Communication science employs a multidisciplinary approach, drawing insights from
psychology, sociology, linguistics, anthropology, and media studies.
• Communication science is the study of the reason behind communication disorders. Work in
the field involves using various techniques, methods, and treatments to assist individuals
with communication impairments, allowing them to communicate at a functional level in day-
to-day life.
• Additionally, communication science analyses the underlying causes of many disorders that
interfere with normal human speech-language functionality.

• Science communication is an umbrella term for the practice of informing and inspiring the
public about scientific knowledge.
• Professionals use a range of science communication tools, from documentaries, books, and
podcasts to mass media journalism and public talks.

8. GLOSSARY
It, also known as communication studies or communication research,
Communication
- is a multidisciplinary field that examines various aspects of human
science
communication processes.
It refers to domesticated animals that are raised on farms or in

Livestock -
agricultural settings for various purposes.
Nitrogen fixation is a chemical process by which molecular nitrogen, It

Podcast - is a digital audio or video program series available for download or
streaming on the Internet.
Vietnamese Good
It is a set of guidelines and standards developed by the government
Agricultural
- of Vietnam to promote sustainable and safe agricultural practices in
Practices
the country.
(VietGAP)

9. TERMINAL QUESTIONS
Short-Answer Type Questions
1. How does science play a vital role in environmental conservation and sustainability?
2. What changes took place in agriculture in Mesopotamia around 5500 B.C.?
3. How did the use of modern equipment affect agriculture in Germany and France?
4. What was the impact of recent technological developments in the aviation industry?
5. Write a short note on communication science.
Long-Answer Type Questions
1. Discuss the various advancements in the agricultural sector brought by technology.
2. Analyse the impact of modern technology in the agriculture sector in India.
3. Explain the uses of science in train and car transport systems.
4. Describe in detail the uses of science in medicine.
5. Discuss the various innovations and applications of science and technology in

communication.

10. ANSWERS
10.1. Self-Assessment Questions
1. (a) Communication (b) Distance
2. (a) True (b) True
3. (a) Agriculture (b) Mesopotamia
4. (a) False (b) True
5. (a) Train (b) Maglev
6. (a) True (b) False
7. (a) Electronic health records (b) Big data
8. (a) False (b) True
9. (a) Communication science (b) Speech therapy
10. (a) True (b) False
10.2. Terminal Questions

Short-Answer Type Questions
Answer 1: Science also plays a vital role in environmental conservation and sustainability.
Through scientific research, we understand the impact of human activities on the environment and
can develop strategies to mitigate climate change, protect ecosystems, and promote sustainable
resource management. Refer to Section 2.
Answer 2: In Mesopotamia, farmers created irrigation systems around 5500 BCE. Farmers could
establish themselves in previously considered unsuitable regions by diverting water from streams
onto their crops. People organised themselves and collaborated to create and maintain better
irrigation systems in Mesopotamia, Kemet, and China. Refer to Section 3.
Answer 3: Early in the 20th century, farms in Germany and Japan started using electricity as a
power source. Most farms in the United States and other highly industrialised nations had
electricity by 1960. Refer to Section 3.
Answer 4: Recent technological developments have changed every aspect of the aviation
industry, including:

• Buying tickets: Using internet portals to compare prices and make timely reservations has
made purchasing tickets easier. Even selecting the most comfortable seats on a specific
plane is possible with the help of the Internet.
Refer to Section 4.
Answer 5: Communication science, or communication studies or research, is a multidisciplinary

field exploring human communication's intricate and fundamental processes. It delves into the
study of how individuals, groups, and societies exchange information, create meaning, and
establish relationships through various channels and mediums. Refer to Section 6.
Long-Answer Type Questions
Answer 1: The production, quality, efficiency, and competitiveness of agriculture have

significantly grown as a result of the use of science and technology. This has modernised rural
and agricultural communities, assuring food security, reducing social scarcity, and boosting the
revenue of farmers and traders. Refer to Section 3.1.
Answer 2: The use of modern technologies in farming and agricultural practices is significant.
Agriculture is continuously improving due to the application of analytical tools, agricultural
advances, and the rise of digital technologies. Refer to Section 3.2.
Answer 3: Cars have transformed as science and technology have advanced in several domains.
The manner that automobiles are powered, operated, accessed, driven, and comfortable have all
significantly improved in recent years. Refer to Section 4.
Answer 4: Science and technology are changing every aspect of our lives. The adoption of
science and technology in healthcare over a few decades has led to better diagnosis and
treatment of patients. Consequently, it improved the quality of life over time and saved many lives.
Some of the benefits are discussed as follows:
• Digitalization of medical records: Electronic medical records have replaced traditional,
antiquated paper-based medical records. This enables people to quickly and easily access
their medical records.
Answer 5: Some of the innovations and applications of science and technology are discussed as
follows:

• Social media platforms: Social media platforms allow people to create personal pages, post
profile images and updates on their lives, and create a friend list of people who can see their
updates. The first social media platform was 6 Degrees, which was launched in 1997.
Refer to Section 6.3.

11. REFERENCES
• David Bernstein, Aaron. 2008. Popular Books on Natural Science: For Practical Use in Every
Household, for Readers of All Classes. South Carolina: BiblioLife.
• Agarwal, Radhika, Dr Usha Agarwal. 2019. Core Natural Sciences. Kindle Direct Publishing:
Seattle.

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OBAC101: Natural Science

Unit: 4 – Uses of Science Across Multiple Fields and Industries 2

Unit: 4 – Uses of Science Across Multiple Fields and Industries 3

2. SCIENCE AND ITS USAGE: AN INTRODUCTION

Science is a systematic and evidence-based approach to understanding the natural world. It

1. Fill in the blanks with appropriate words.

Unit: 4 – Uses of Science Across Multiple Fields and Industries 4

3. USES OF SCIENCE IN AGRICULTURE

Unit: 4 – Uses of Science Across Multiple Fields and Industries 5

Scientists learned which elements—nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium—were most important

Unit: 4 – Uses of Science Across Multiple Fields and Industries 6

3.1. Contribution of Science and Technology in Agriculture

Unit: 4 – Uses of Science Across Multiple Fields and Industries 7

3.2. Use of Modern Technology in Agriculture in India

Unit: 4 – Uses of Science Across Multiple Fields and Industries 8

2. Resilient crops developed via biotechnology: Agriculture refers to a broad range of

3. Agricultural sensors: Smart farming is becoming a reality in India due to communications

5. Yes to monitoring: Monitoring is necessary for large-scale livestock management, and

Unit: 4 – Uses of Science Across Multiple Fields and Industries 9

3. Fill in the blanks with appropriate words.

Unit: 4 – Uses of Science Across Multiple Fields and Industries 10

4. USE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY IN

Unit: 4 – Uses of Science Across Multiple Fields and Industries 11

Unit: 4 – Uses of Science Across Multiple Fields and Industries 12

Despite being perceived as handy, research by the UC Davis Institute of Transportation

Technologies for transport revolution

Unit: 4 – Uses of Science Across Multiple Fields and Industries 13

Unit: 4 – Uses of Science Across Multiple Fields and Industries 14

5. Fill in the blanks with appropriate words.

Unit: 4 – Uses of Science Across Multiple Fields and Industries 15

5. USES OF SCIENCE IN MEDICINE

Unit: 4 – Uses of Science Across Multiple Fields and Industries 16

• Prevents preventable deaths

Unit: 4 – Uses of Science Across Multiple Fields and Industries 17

7. Fill in the blanks with appropriate words.

Unit: 4 – Uses of Science Across Multiple Fields and Industries 18

6.1. Communication Science and Communication Disorders

Unit: 4 – Uses of Science Across Multiple Fields and Industries 19

6.2. Importance of Science Communication

Unit: 4 – Uses of Science Across Multiple Fields and Industries 20

6.3. Innovation and Applications of Science and Technology in

Unit: 4 – Uses of Science Across Multiple Fields and Industries 21

Unit: 4 – Uses of Science Across Multiple Fields and Industries 22

9. Fill in the blanks with appropriate words.

Unit: 4 – Uses of Science Across Multiple Fields and Industries 23

Unit: 4 – Uses of Science Across Multiple Fields and Industries 24

Unit: 4 – Uses of Science Across Multiple Fields and Industries 25

Unit: 4 – Uses of Science Across Multiple Fields and Industries 26

It refers to domesticated animals that are raised on farms or in

Nitrogen fixation is a chemical process by which molecular nitrogen, It

Unit: 4 – Uses of Science Across Multiple Fields and Industries 27

2. What changes took place in agriculture in Mesopotamia around 5500 B.C.?

5. Write a short note on communication science.

Long-Answer Type Questions

1. Discuss the various advancements in the agricultural sector brought by technology.

2. Analyse the impact of modern technology in the agriculture sector in India.

3. Explain the uses of science in train and car transport systems.

4. Describe in detail the uses of science in medicine.