Q3: Differences

[Nikol]

The are some differences that can be pointed out:
– Approach:
– The building of a bridge is in essence the application of many already known “elements” (materials, theories, simulations, trials, previous models,…) based on the fact that the properties of those “elements” are known, and its specific required working combination can be calculated and tested.
– The synthesis of a superconductor is in essence an attempt to make this work out without certain “elements” (best possible material for this role, its properties and reactions for the specific task required,…). So therefore, this can be considered more as a research task for further application of the material rather than direct application since we do not have the information about the material itself nor the possibility to calculate it (too complex).
– Purpose:
– The construction of a bridge is a first and final attempt, since the purpose is its functionality based on the previous working theory and trials.
– The superconductor synthesis’s “purpose” is to arrive to the needed conclusion (material), but without a set of calculations nor other ways to get to it directly, trial and error is needed.
– Scale:
– The construction of a bridge requires a much greater scale since its purpose is its functionality and endurance for as long as possible or needed.
– The superconductor synthesis requires trials and errors, and therefore many attempts, most of which may not be successful. So it could be said that the quantity of the resources would be much smaller as the possibility of failure is present and a “waste” of materials from it.

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