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electromagnetism and motion. He was driven by the desire to
understand, not seeking practical applications. Yet his theories
later enabled the development of modern technologies like
GPS, solar panels and lasers.

The truth is we often cannot predict where basic research
will lead too. But it lays the foundation for future innovations,
sparking new ideas and areas of exploration. It nourishes the
human spirit and expands the frontiers of knowledge for all.
While it is crucial to pursue research with clear applications,
Seeds of progress we must also cultivate our natural curiosity through basic
research. For it is in the childlike wonder of scientists asking
“What if?” that the seeds of progress are sown. Supporting
this exploration today leads to a brighter tomorrow we cannot
yet imagine. The fruits of basic research may not be obvious
now, but down the line, it can usher in breakthroughs that
transform society in ways big and small.

Applied Research - Applied research connects scientific
knowledge with real-world problems and applications. It
takes theoretical insights and discoveries from basic science
and uses them to develop functional solutions for human
needs. While basic research adds to our overall knowledge,
applied research serves the equally vital role of improving
human life through technology. It is concerned with how
things work in a practical sense, not just how they work in
theory. Some of civilisation's greatest advances have come
Theory to practise from taking theoretical knowledge and applying it creatively.

For example, our understanding of electromagnetism led
to electric power and telecommunications technology.
The atomic theory led to nuclear energy. Bacteriological
science led to modern medicine, sanitation and agriculture.
Knowledge of aerodynamics led to aviation and so on. Without
connecting theory to practice, most modern technologies
would not exist.

As the physicist Isaac Newton wrote, “If I have seen further,
it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.” Each generation
builds on the theoretical knowledge handed down from
Standing on previous generations. While our theoretical understanding
shoulders always remains incomplete, the practical insights gained
through applied research are boundless. There is no end to
how scientific knowledge can improve human life through
thoughtful application. And in the process, applied research
invariably raises new theoretical questions for basic science
to ponder.

28 SGOU - SLM - Foundational Skills for Research and Writing