According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, an invention is defined as somethin

Question

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, an invention is defined as something invented as a product of the imagination such as a device, contrivance, or process originated after study and experiment and an innovation is defined as the introduction of something new such as an idea or method. How would you differentiate an invention from an innovation as it applies to science and technology? Provide two examples of each type and explain your thought process in distinguishing the examples provided.

Explanation / Answer

In its purest sense, invention can be defined as the creation of a product or introduction of a process for the first time. Innovation, on the other hand, occurs if someone improves on or makes a significant contribution to an existing product, process or service.

Consider the microprocessor. Someone invented the microprocessor. But by itself, the microprocessor was nothing more than another piece on the circuit board. It's what was done with that piece -- the hundreds of thousands of products, processes and services that evolved from the invention of the microprocessor -- that required innovation.

Related Questions

Navigate

• Browse (All)
• Browse A
• Subjects

---

---

Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.