Question
You have been asked to write an article for your local newspaper presenting an argument for or against the use of a technological system that uses gravitational, electric, and/or magnetic fields. To do this, you must analyze the technology's operation and then present the advantages and disadvantages of the impact of this technological system on society and the environment. You must present both sides of the argument but present a clear opinion on whether or not you believe this technology is good, or not so good, for society and the environment. Remember, you are writing for your local newspaper, not scientists. You must explain everything in language that anyone who reads the newspaper can understand. At the same time, as a requirement for this course, you must apply knowledge that you have learned in this unit. Your article should be between 800 - 1000 words. (30 MARKS)
Be sure to reference all information sources and pictures.
Here are some possible topics to get you thinking:
home entertainment system
computer
use of gravitational field maps to correct navigational errors in unmanned underwater vehicles
magnetic strips on credit cards
magneto-rheological fluid dampers (used to absorb shocks from earthquakes)
use of radio frequency identification chips for inventory tracking
satellites (one or more of weather, communication, GPS, etc.)
particle accelerators (in general, or for a specific purpose)
radiation therapy for cancer tumours
electrical fields created by high voltage lines
zero gravity experiments on agricultural products
use of gravitational fields to search for mineral deposits
SNO (Sudbury Neutrino Observatory)
study of dark matter and black holes
experiments done in bubble or cloud chambers
Be sure to reference all information sources and pictures.
Here are some possible topics to get you thinking:
home entertainment system
computer
use of gravitational field maps to correct navigational errors in unmanned underwater vehicles
magnetic strips on credit cards
magneto-rheological fluid dampers (used to absorb shocks from earthquakes)
use of radio frequency identification chips for inventory tracking
satellites (one or more of weather, communication, GPS, etc.)
particle accelerators (in general, or for a specific purpose)
radiation therapy for cancer tumours
electrical fields created by high voltage lines
zero gravity experiments on agricultural products
use of gravitational fields to search for mineral deposits
SNO (Sudbury Neutrino Observatory)
study of dark matter and black holes
experiments done in bubble or cloud chambers
Answers
Bot
Possible article:
A Technological System of Fields: Pros and Cons
Technology is constantly evolving and introducing new ways of making our lives easier, healthier, and more enjoyable. However, not all technological systems are created equal, and some can have unintended consequences for society and the environment. One type of technology that relies on gravitational, electric, and/or magnetic fields has both advantages and disadvantages, depending on how it is used. In this article, we will explore some examples of such systems and weigh their pros and cons.
Let us begin with a system that many people use every day: the computer. Computers operate by manipulating electric fields that flow through circuits made of tiny components called transistors. These transistors can represent binary digits (bits) and perform logical operations, which enable a wide range of tasks, from browsing the web to playing games to running businesses. The advantages of computers are obvious: they can process vast amounts of data quickly, store and retrieve information reliably, and connect people and organizations across the world. However, computers also have some disadvantages, such as creating electronic waste when they become obsolete, generating heat and noise when they run, and exposing users to security and privacy risks that can lead to identity theft, fraud, or surveillance. Moreover, the production and disposal of computers require a lot of energy and resources, which can contribute to climate change, pollution, and depletion of natural habitats.
Another example of a technological system that involves fields is the use of gravitational field maps to correct navigational errors in unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs). UUVs are submarines equipped with cameras, sensors, and manipulators that can explore deep sea environments that are inaccessible or hazardous for humans. However, UUVs can encounter difficulties when trying to avoid obstacles or stay on course, due to variations in the gravitational field caused by the seafloor topography or other sources. To overcome this problem, UUVs can use sensors that measure the local gravitational field and compare it to a map of the expected field, generated from satellite data or ship-based measurements. By adjusting their thrusters or buoyancy control, UUVs can compensate for the errors and follow a desired path more accurately. The advantages of UUVs are numerous: they can help us discover new species, observe geological phenomena, search for lost objects, and test new technologies. They can also reduce the risks and costs associated with manned submersibles. However, UUVs also have some disadvantages, such as being vulnerable to ocean currents, storms, and marine debris, which can damage or trap them. They can also disturb the natural habitat and behavior of marine animals, or accidentally introduce invasive species to new areas. Moreover, UUVs require a lot of energy and materials to build and operate, which can have carbon and ecological footprints.
A third example of a technological system that exploits fields is magnetic strips on credit cards. Credit cards are small plastic cards that contain a stripe of magnetic material, which can store information about the cardholder's account, such as the name, number, expiration date, and security code. When the card is swiped through a card reader, the magnetic stripe is read and decoded, and the transaction data is sent to the card issuer for approval or denial. The advantages of magnetic stripes are convenience, speed, and security, as they allow users to make purchases without carrying cash, signing checks, or revealing their PINs. Magnetic strips also enable businesses to track their sales and inventory, prevent fraud and chargebacks, and offer rewards and discounts to loyal customers. However, magnetic strips also have some disadvantages, such as being susceptible to being demagnetized or erased by magnets, water, or friction, which can cause loss of data or malfunction. Also, magnetic strips can be cracked or skimmed by thieves, who can duplicate the information and use it to make unauthorized purchases or create fake cards. Therefore, the use of magnetic strips is being phased out in favor of more secure and versatile technologies, such as EMV chips, contactless payments, or mobile wallets.
We can see that all three examples of technological systems that utilize fields have both pros and cons, depending on how they are implemented and used. However, we can also draw some general lessons from these examples, such as:
- Technology is not neutral or deterministic, but is shaped by social, economic, and political factors that influence its design, production, and consumption.
- Technology can have unintended consequences, including ecological, health, and ethical issues that may emerge only after prolonged use or exposure.
- Technology can be improved or replaced by alternative solutions that balance the advantages and disadvantages and reduce the negative impacts on society and the environment.
In light of these lessons, we can pose the question of whether the use of technological systems that harness fields is good or not so good for society and the environment. The answer, of course, depends on the specific context and criteria we adopt, but in general, we can say that the benefits of these systems outweigh the harms, if they are used responsibly, sustainably, and innovatively. For example, UUVs can help us discover new resources, preserve fragile ecosystems, and monitor climate change, if they are integrated with other tools and methods that respect the marine environment and engage the local communities. Likewise, computers can enhance education, healthcare, entertainment, and communication, if they are powered by renewable energy sources, recycled or repaired instead of discarded, and protected from cyber threats and surveillance. Finally, magnetic strips on credit cards can still be a useful and safe payment method, if they are used only for low-value transactions, and complemented with other forms of payment that offer more security and privacy.
In conclusion, the use of technological systems that utilize gravitational, electric, and/or magnetic fields is a mixed blessing that requires careful consideration and evaluation. By recognizing the pros and cons of these systems, and by applying our knowledge and creativity to improve them, we can enhance our quality of life, protect our environment, and foster a more inclusive and sustainable society.
A Technological System of Fields: Pros and Cons
Technology is constantly evolving and introducing new ways of making our lives easier, healthier, and more enjoyable. However, not all technological systems are created equal, and some can have unintended consequences for society and the environment. One type of technology that relies on gravitational, electric, and/or magnetic fields has both advantages and disadvantages, depending on how it is used. In this article, we will explore some examples of such systems and weigh their pros and cons.
Let us begin with a system that many people use every day: the computer. Computers operate by manipulating electric fields that flow through circuits made of tiny components called transistors. These transistors can represent binary digits (bits) and perform logical operations, which enable a wide range of tasks, from browsing the web to playing games to running businesses. The advantages of computers are obvious: they can process vast amounts of data quickly, store and retrieve information reliably, and connect people and organizations across the world. However, computers also have some disadvantages, such as creating electronic waste when they become obsolete, generating heat and noise when they run, and exposing users to security and privacy risks that can lead to identity theft, fraud, or surveillance. Moreover, the production and disposal of computers require a lot of energy and resources, which can contribute to climate change, pollution, and depletion of natural habitats.
Another example of a technological system that involves fields is the use of gravitational field maps to correct navigational errors in unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs). UUVs are submarines equipped with cameras, sensors, and manipulators that can explore deep sea environments that are inaccessible or hazardous for humans. However, UUVs can encounter difficulties when trying to avoid obstacles or stay on course, due to variations in the gravitational field caused by the seafloor topography or other sources. To overcome this problem, UUVs can use sensors that measure the local gravitational field and compare it to a map of the expected field, generated from satellite data or ship-based measurements. By adjusting their thrusters or buoyancy control, UUVs can compensate for the errors and follow a desired path more accurately. The advantages of UUVs are numerous: they can help us discover new species, observe geological phenomena, search for lost objects, and test new technologies. They can also reduce the risks and costs associated with manned submersibles. However, UUVs also have some disadvantages, such as being vulnerable to ocean currents, storms, and marine debris, which can damage or trap them. They can also disturb the natural habitat and behavior of marine animals, or accidentally introduce invasive species to new areas. Moreover, UUVs require a lot of energy and materials to build and operate, which can have carbon and ecological footprints.
A third example of a technological system that exploits fields is magnetic strips on credit cards. Credit cards are small plastic cards that contain a stripe of magnetic material, which can store information about the cardholder's account, such as the name, number, expiration date, and security code. When the card is swiped through a card reader, the magnetic stripe is read and decoded, and the transaction data is sent to the card issuer for approval or denial. The advantages of magnetic stripes are convenience, speed, and security, as they allow users to make purchases without carrying cash, signing checks, or revealing their PINs. Magnetic strips also enable businesses to track their sales and inventory, prevent fraud and chargebacks, and offer rewards and discounts to loyal customers. However, magnetic strips also have some disadvantages, such as being susceptible to being demagnetized or erased by magnets, water, or friction, which can cause loss of data or malfunction. Also, magnetic strips can be cracked or skimmed by thieves, who can duplicate the information and use it to make unauthorized purchases or create fake cards. Therefore, the use of magnetic strips is being phased out in favor of more secure and versatile technologies, such as EMV chips, contactless payments, or mobile wallets.
We can see that all three examples of technological systems that utilize fields have both pros and cons, depending on how they are implemented and used. However, we can also draw some general lessons from these examples, such as:
- Technology is not neutral or deterministic, but is shaped by social, economic, and political factors that influence its design, production, and consumption.
- Technology can have unintended consequences, including ecological, health, and ethical issues that may emerge only after prolonged use or exposure.
- Technology can be improved or replaced by alternative solutions that balance the advantages and disadvantages and reduce the negative impacts on society and the environment.
In light of these lessons, we can pose the question of whether the use of technological systems that harness fields is good or not so good for society and the environment. The answer, of course, depends on the specific context and criteria we adopt, but in general, we can say that the benefits of these systems outweigh the harms, if they are used responsibly, sustainably, and innovatively. For example, UUVs can help us discover new resources, preserve fragile ecosystems, and monitor climate change, if they are integrated with other tools and methods that respect the marine environment and engage the local communities. Likewise, computers can enhance education, healthcare, entertainment, and communication, if they are powered by renewable energy sources, recycled or repaired instead of discarded, and protected from cyber threats and surveillance. Finally, magnetic strips on credit cards can still be a useful and safe payment method, if they are used only for low-value transactions, and complemented with other forms of payment that offer more security and privacy.
In conclusion, the use of technological systems that utilize gravitational, electric, and/or magnetic fields is a mixed blessing that requires careful consideration and evaluation. By recognizing the pros and cons of these systems, and by applying our knowledge and creativity to improve them, we can enhance our quality of life, protect our environment, and foster a more inclusive and sustainable society.