Which of the following is most likely an example of a basic research project?

Question

I have tried to answer this question a few times but every time I come to a conclusion I start to think that another answer also applies to being considered "basic research"

A. Modification of an existing chemical reaction process to make the same chemical in a less expensive fashion

B. Potential development of a completely new family of chemicals in 10 to 15 years.

C. Finding a technically more efficient method to produce the same product.

D. The development of better packaging of batteries for electric cars.

I'd like to know which is a basic research project and why please. I have a hard time understanding the difference between basic and applied research.

Answer 1

Let's apply the basic definitions of basic and applied research to each of the options and see what we come up with.

Basic research: helps to expand our existing knowledge

Applied research: helps to provide a solution to an existing problem

Of course, you can find other definitions, but these are simple and basic concepts. Applying these to the given options:

A. Seems to be providing a solution to an existing problem. I'd call this applied

B. Seems to trying to expand existing knowledge for use in the future. I'd call this basic

C. Seems to be providing a solution to an existing problem. I'd call this applied

D. Seems to be providing a solution to an existing problem. I'd call this applied

So, this is my approach to answering this question. Maybe others will have alternative approaches.