Understanding how a Technology works and the Scientific Concepts underlying a technology are different things
Technology is at the core of what this publication covers. So, I realized that it is necessary to explain an important distinction that comes up while trying to comprehend a technology. The distinction that I am talking about is between how it works (its practical functionality) and the scientific principles underlying it (the theoretical foundations). While the former focuses on operational mechanisms and applications, the latter delves into the physics, chemistry, or mathematics that make the technology possible.
Instead of giving theoretical definitions, I believe it would be better If I give some examples. So, to practically illustrate this distinction, we will examine two key technologies: quantum computing and LED screens.
1. Quantum Computing: From Qubits to Quantum Mechanics
Practical Functionality: How Quantum Computing Works
At a functional level, quantum computers operate very differently from classical computers. Instead of traditional bits (which are either 0 or 1), they use quantum bits (qubits). These qubits can exist in a superposition of states, meaning they can be both 0 and 1 simultaneously. This property allows quantum computers to perform many calculations in parallel, drastically speeding up certain types of computations, such as factoring large numbers (using Shor’s algorithm) or searching unsorted databases (using Grover’s algorithm).
Additionally, quantum computers leverage entanglement, a phenomenon where the state of one qubit instantaneously influences another, even if they are physically separated. This enables highly coordinated operations that classical systems cannot replicate. However, quantum systems are fragile and require extreme cooling (near absolute zero) to maintain coherence—preventing the qubits from losing their quantum state due to environmental interference.
Scientific Foundations: The Physics Behind Quantum Computing
While the practical aspects explain what quantum computers do, the science explains why they work. The behavior of qubits is governed by quantum mechanics, specifically:
Superposition arises from the Schrödinger equation, which describes quantum states as wavefunctions that can exist in multiple states until measured.
Entanglement is explained by Bell’s theorem, which shows that entangled particles exhibit correlations that cannot be explained by classical physics.
Decoherence (the loss of quantum state) is tied to quantum thermodynamics and interactions with the environment.
Quantum gates (which manipulate qubits) operate using unitary transformations, a concept from linear algebra.
Key Insight:
A practical understanding tells us that "quantum computers use qubits to solve problems faster."
A scientific understanding explains that "superposition emerges from the probabilistic nature of quantum wavefunctions."
2. LED Screens: From Pixels to Semiconductor Physics
Practical Functionality: How LED Screens Work
LED (Light-Emitting Diode) screens produce images by combining millions of tiny light-emitting diodes. Each pixel in an LED display is typically made up of three subpixels: red, green, and blue (RGB). By varying the intensity of these subpixels, the screen can produce a full spectrum of colors.
The brightness of each LED is controlled using pulse-width modulation (PWM), which rapidly turns the diodes on and off to simulate different brightness levels. Modern displays, such as OLED (Organic LED) screens, use an active-matrix system, allowing each pixel to be controlled independently for sharper images and deeper blacks.
Scientific Foundations: The Physics and Chemistry Behind LEDs
The operation of LEDs is rooted in semiconductor physics and electroluminescence:
When an electric current passes through an LED, electrons recombine with "holes" (electron vacancies) in the semiconductor material, releasing energy as photons (light).
The color of the emitted light depends on the bandgap of the semiconductor—different materials (e.g., gallium arsenide for red, indium gallium nitride for blue) produce different wavelengths.
Doping (adding impurities to semiconductors) creates the p-n junction necessary for current flow and light emission.
Key Insight:
A practical understanding says, "LEDs light up when electricity passes through them, and colors mix to form images."
A scientific understanding explains, "Photons are emitted due to electron-hole recombination in a semiconductor’s p-n junction."
I hope this gives you a better understanding of the distinction between these two terms. Understanding a technology’s practical functionality is essential for its application and development, whereas grasping its scientific foundations allows for further innovation. Quantum computing would not exist without the principles of quantum mechanics, just as LED screens rely on semiconductor physics. By appreciating both perspectives—how a technology works and why it works—we gain a deeper insight into the tools that shape our world and the potential for future advancements.