Science & Tech. (Applications of Technological Developments in our everyday life) by Rajvardhan

Model Answer

Question #1. Discuss the applications of biotechnology for energy production. 10 marks (150 words)

Biotechnology is emerging as a game-changer in the energy sector, offering ways to produce cleaner and more sustainable energy. Here's a look at its key applications:

Biofuels: Biotechnology helps create fuels from renewable sources like plant material (biomass). Microbes are engineered to efficiently break down cellulose, the main component of plant cell walls, into fermentable sugars. This is then converted into bioethanol (alcohol fuel) or biodiesel (similar to diesel).

Enhanced Biomass Production: Scientists are using genetic modification to create crops with higher yields and faster growth rates. This allows for more efficient production of biofuel feedstocks without increasing land use. Additionally, research is underway on engineering plants that can convert sunlight more efficiently, boosting overall biomass production.

Microbial Fuel Cells: These innovative devices use bacteria to break down organic matter and generate electricity. The microbes release electrons as they consume the organic material, which can be channeled through electrodes to produce a current. While still under development, microbial fuel cells hold promise for powering small devices or even generating electricity in wastewater treatment plants.

Biorefineries: Similar to traditional oil refineries, biorefineries use biotechnology to convert biomass into a wider range of bio-based products. This includes not just biofuels but also bioplastics, biochemicals, and other valuable products. By utilizing all components of the biomass, biorefineries promote a more sustainable approach to resource management.

Fossil Fuel Improvements: While biofuels aim to replace fossil fuels, biotechnology can also optimize their use. Microbes can be employed to enhance oil recovery from depleted fields and even clean up oil spills. Additionally, bioengineering can create microorganisms that can break down pollutants generated during fossil fuel combustion, reducing their environmental impact.

These are just some of the ways biotechnology is transforming energy production. As research continue more innovative applications that will lead to a cleaner and more secure energy future would be developed.

Question #2. Discuss the applications of nanotechnology in health sector. 15 marks (250 words)

Nanotechnology is revolutionizing healthcare by offering tools to manipulate matter at the incredibly tiny scale of nanometers (one billionth of a meter). This unique size allows them to interact with cells and molecules in the body, opening doors for exciting applications:

Drug Delivery: Nanoparticles can be designed to act as Trojan horses, carrying medication directly to diseased cells. This targeted approach minimizes side effects by delivering drugs only where needed.

Diagnostics: Nanobiosensors can detect biomarkers associated with diseases like cancer at much earlier stages. These tiny sensors can be incorporated into diagnostic tools or even be ingested for internal monitoring. Early detection significantly improves treatment success rates.

Imaging: Nanoparticles can be used as contrast agents in imaging techniques like MRI or ultrasound. By accumulating in specific areas, they enhance the contrast between healthy and diseased tissues, allowing for clearer and more accurate diagnoses.

Tissue Engineering: Imagine using nanofibers to create scaffolds that mimic the natural environment of cells! This paves the way for regenerating damaged tissues or organs. Research is ongoing for applications in bone repair, wound healing, and even artificial skin grafts.

Therapies:  Nanoparticles can be used not just for drug delivery but also for direct therapeutic interventions. For instance, gold nanoparticles can be heated with lasers to destroy cancerous cells with minimal damage to surrounding tissues.

Nanotechnology is still in its early stages within healthcare, but the potential is immense. As research progresses, we can expect even more sophisticated applications leading to personalized medicine, targeted treatments, and potentially even cures for currently untreatable diseases.