Research
Business
Engineering
Extra questions (mixed)1
Extra questions (mixed)2
100
Is umbrellaology science? What problems does it have?
Umbrellaology is not a recognized scientific discipline; it is often used humorously to describe the study of umbrellas. The main problem it faces is the lack of rigorous methodology, peer review, and scientific validation that characterize established sciences.
100
What is a business model? What examples of successful business models can you provide?
A business model outlines how a company creates, delivers, and captures value. Examples include:
- Subscription Model: Companies like Netflix charge a recurring fee for access to content.
- Freemium Model: Services like Spotify offer basic features for free while charging for premium features.
100
Comment on the technological advances of the four Industrial Revolutions (Industries 1.0-4.0). What technological breakthroughs can we envision in the next five, ten, fifty years?
1. Industrial Revolution (Industries 1.0) Period: Late 18th to early 19th century Key Technologies: - Steam engine - Mechanized textile production - Iron production techniques
2. Industrial Revolution (Industries 2.0) Period: Late 19th to early 20th century Key Technologies: - Electricity - Assembly line production - Internal combustion engine
3. Industrial Revolution (Industries 3.0) Period: Late 20th century Key Technologies: - Computers - Automation - Information technology
4. Industrial Revolution (Industries 4.0) Period: Early 21st century to present Key Technologies: - Internet of Things (IoT) - Artificial Intelligence (AI) - Big Data - Advanced robotics
100
Why do planets have rings and are all the ring systems in the Solar System of the same structure?
Planets have rings due to gravitational interactions that prevent particles from coalescing into moons or due to remnants from moons that were shattered. Ring systems vary in structure; for example, Saturn's rings are composed of ice particles, while those around Jupiter are darker and rockier.
100
Explain the function of the following parts of the plane: engines; landing gear; flaps; spoilers; cockpit?
- Engines: Provide thrust to propel the aircraft forward.
- Landing Gear: Supports the aircraft on the ground during takeoff and landing.
- Flaps: Increase lift at lower speeds during takeoff and landing by changing wing shape.
- Spoilers: Reduce lift and increase drag during descent or landing to slow down the aircraft.
- Cockpit: The control center where pilots operate the aircraft systems and navigate.
200
What is Citizen Science?
Citizen Science involves public participation in scientific research. Volunteers contribute to data collection, analysis, and interpretation, often in collaboration with professional scientists. This approach can enhance research efforts while promoting public engagement in science.
200
Explain the meaning of the following terms:
(business) ecosystem; Asset; O2O; Joint venture; Holding; Revenue; Net profit
- Ecosystem: A network of interconnected businesses and stakeholders that interact in a specific market.
- Asset: Any resource owned by a business that has economic value.
- O2O (Online to Offline): A business model that drives online customers to physical stores.
- Joint Venture: A partnership where two or more parties create a new entity sharing risks and profits.
- Holding: A company that owns controlling interests in other companies.
- Revenue: The total income generated from sales before any expenses are deducted.
- Net Profit: The amount remaining after all expenses, taxes, and costs have been subtracted from revenue.
200
What is quantum computing and how does it work?
Quantum computing uses quantum bits (qubits) that can exist in multiple states simultaneously, allowing for complex calculations at high speeds. It relies on principles of quantum mechanics like superposition and entanglement to process information.
200
What are black holes and why do they break the laws of Newtonian physics?
Black holes are regions in space with gravitational pulls so strong that nothing can escape them. They break Newtonian physics because their gravitational effects cannot be explained by classical mechanics; instead, they require general relativity for accurate descriptions.
200
How does Siri (or any other virtual assistant) recognize human voice?
Siri uses automatic speech recognition (ASR) technology that converts spoken language into text using algorithms trained on large datasets. It processes audio input through machine learning models to understand commands or questions.
300
What is the difference between wet and dry lab?
Wet Lab: A laboratory where experiments involving liquids, chemicals, and biological samples are conducted. It typically includes equipment like fume hoods, sinks, and refrigeration.
Dry Lab: A laboratory focused on computational or theoretical work, where experiments do not involve liquids. It often includes computer workstations for simulations or data analysis.
300
What does VUCA stand for? What industries benefit from VUCA environment? Why?
VUCA stands for Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity. Industries like technology, finance, and healthcare benefit from a VUCA environment because they thrive on innovation and adaptability to changing conditions.
300
Explain the idea that is behind the concept of big data. Explain how the 5v’s concept works.
Big data refers to large volumes of data that traditional data processing applications cannot handle efficiently. The 5 V's are:
1. **Volume**: The amount of data generated.
2. **Velocity**: The speed at which data is generated and processed.
3. **Variety**: The different types of data (structured, unstructured).
4. **Veracity**: The reliability and accuracy of the data.
5. **Value**: The potential insights derived from analyzing the data.
300
What are cryptocurrencies and what is their main difference from conventional currencies? What is mining? Is it legal?
Cryptocurrencies are digital or virtual currencies that use cryptography for security. Unlike conventional currencies, they are decentralized and operate on blockchain technology.
Mining is the process of validating transactions and adding them to the blockchain, often requiring significant computational power. Its legality varies by jurisdiction.
300
What is the difference between Editing & Proofreading?
- Editing: Involves revising content for clarity, structure, style, and coherence while improving overall quality.
- Proofreading: Focuses on correcting grammatical errors, punctuation mistakes, spelling errors, and formatting issues after editing is complete.
400
What are the pros and cons of Team Science, what roles exist, what are their responsibilities?
Pros:
- Diverse expertise enhances problem-solving.
- Greater resource availability.
- Increased creativity through collaboration.
Cons:
- Potential for conflicts or miscommunication.
- Coordination challenges can slow progress.
Roles:
- Principal Investigator (PI): Leads the research project.
- Research Scientists: Conduct experiments and analyze data.
- Technicians: Manage equipment and assist in experiments.
- Data Analysts: Interpret data and assist in publication.
400
Explain the idea behind Hofstede’s Cultural Dimensions.
Hofstede’s Cultural Dimensions theory identifies six dimensions that affect how cultures vary in their values and behaviors. These dimensions help understand cultural differences in workplace behavior, communication styles, and management practices.
400
What is the difference between biomechanics or biomedical engineering? What are these branches of science responsible for? Which of the two fields is more general and which one is more specific?
- Biomechanics: Focuses on the mechanical aspects of biological systems, studying movement and physical forces in living organisms.
- Biomedical Engineering: Combines engineering principles with medical sciences to design devices and technologies for healthcare.
Biomedical engineering is more general as it encompasses various fields, while biomechanics is more specific to mechanics in biological contexts.
400
Explain differences between airships and traditional aircrafts in terms of flight mechanics and operation. Explain the difference between rigid and non-rigid airships and their respective advantages and disadvantages.
Airships vs. Traditional Aircraft:
- Airships use buoyant gas (like helium) for lift, while traditional aircraft rely on aerodynamic lift generated by wings.
- Airships are slower but can remain airborne longer; traditional aircraft are faster and more maneuverable.
Rigid Airships: Have a framework that maintains shape (e.g., Zeppelin).
- Advantages: More durable, larger capacity.
- Disadvantages: More complex construction.
Non-Rigid Airships: Use pressure to maintain shape (e.g., blimps).
- Advantages: Simpler design, lighter.
- Disadvantages: Less durable, limited payload capacity.
400
Explain the principle of 3D Printing Technology Process.
3D printing creates three-dimensional objects by layering materials based on digital models. The process typically involves:
1. Designing a 3D model using CAD software.
2. Slicing the model into layers using slicing software.
3. Printing layer by layer using materials like plastic, metal, or resin until the object is complete.
500
Name physical and chemical properties of matter
Physical Properties:
- Color
- Density
- Melting point
- Boiling point
- Solubility
Chemical Properties:
- Reactivity with acids/bases
- Flammability
- Oxidation states
- Toxicity
500
What competition strategies in SME’s can you name?
1. Cost Leadership: Offering products at lower prices than competitors.
2. Differentiation: Providing unique products or services that stand out.
3. Niche Marketing: Targeting specific segments of the market with tailored offerings.
500
How do neural networks in computer vision function? What are the ethical dilemmas related to this technology?
Neural networks process images through layers of interconnected nodes that learn to recognize patterns. They use convolutional layers to extract features from images.
Ethical dilemmas include:
- Privacy concerns regarding surveillance.
- Bias in training data leading to discrimination.
- Accountability for decisions made by AI systems.
500
Wave-particle duality. When and why do micro particles show wave-like or particle-like properties?
Wave-particle duality refers to the phenomenon where particles like electrons exhibit both wave-like and particle-like properties depending on the experimental setup. They show wave-like behavior in interference experiments (e.g., double-slit) but behave as particles when observed or measured directly.
500
What is Science Communication? What activities does it encompass?
Science Communication involves conveying scientific information to non-expert audiences through various means. Activities include:
- Public lectures
- Science writing (articles, blogs)
- Social media engagement
- Educational programs
- Documentaries