Which of the following statements best describes the general relationship between science and technology in terms of how they influence each other over time?

Introduction / Context:
Science and technology are closely connected in modern society. Science aims to understand natural phenomena through systematic observation and theory, while technology uses knowledge to create tools and processes that solve practical problems. Exam questions often ask how these two domains influence each other and which statement best summarises their interaction.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The question concerns the relationship between science and technology.
• Options present different types of relationships: one way dependence, no relation, or mutual influence.
• We must select the statement that best captures this relationship.
• We assume modern views where both science and technology develop dynamically over time.

Concept / Approach:
In reality, science and technology have a two way relationship. Scientific discoveries, such as the understanding of electricity or the structure of DNA, often lead to new technologies like electric power grids or genetic engineering tools. At the same time, new technologies, such as powerful microscopes, telescopes, or computers, allow scientists to make observations and run experiments that were previously impossible, leading to further advances in scientific knowledge. The correct description should reflect this mutual influence, not a one sided or non existent relationship.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Evaluate option a, which says technology is simply a branch of science. This ignores the practical, design oriented nature of technology and the fact that technology can precede formal science in some areas. Step 2: Examine option b, which states that advances in science can lead to new technology and new technology can help science progress. This recognises a two way interaction. Step 3: Consider option c, which claims there is no science without technology. This is too extreme because some basic forms of science existed even with very simple tools. Step 4: Look at option d, which denies any relationship, clearly contradicting the everyday observation that scientific knowledge and technological development are linked. Step 5: Conclude that option b is the only statement that correctly reflects the mutual and dynamic relationship between science and technology.

Verification / Alternative check:
You can verify by thinking of historical examples. The development of the steam engine used knowledge from thermodynamics but also motivated further scientific study of heat. The invention of the telescope allowed astronomers to test theories about planets and stars, and later advances in physics made it possible to build better telescopes. Similar cycles are seen in computing, medicine, and communications. These examples show a continuous feedback loop between science and technology.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option a oversimplifies the relationship and overlooks the practical and inventive side of technology. Option c exaggerates the dependence of science on technology and would deny early forms of observation based science. Option d is clearly wrong because it denies obvious links, such as the use of scientific principles in engineering. Therefore, these options fail to capture the complex but clear connection between science and technology.

Common Pitfalls:
Some learners assume that science always comes first and technology only follows, ignoring cases where practical inventions preceded scientific explanations. Others may treat technology as entirely separate from science because they see it mainly as gadgets. Understanding that there is a two way flow of influence helps answer questions like this accurately.

Final Answer:
The best description is that advances in science can lead to new technology, and new technologies can also enable further scientific discoveries.