List of emerging technologies
In the dynamic realm of science and technology, a myriad of innovative technologies is on the rise, each possessing the transformative potential to revolutionize their respective fields. These technologies are not mere theoretical constructs but are grounded in actual research and development. The emergence of such advancements is predicated upon several key criteria: they must be more than abstract concepts and boast existing research, documentation in the form of a Wikipedia entry or similar scholarly references, and they should not be in widespread use or heavily commercialized at present.
The spectrum of burgeoning technologies spans various sectors, including agriculture, construction, energy, materials, textiles, and more. In the domain of electronics, information technology, and communications, new technologies promise to redefine entertainment and optoelectronicsâa branch dealing with light detection and emission. Within medicine, innovative tools and methods are emerging, particularly in the field of neuroscience, which investigates the complexities of the brain and nervous system.
Further afield, the military is exploring groundbreaking technologies that may alter the nature of defense and warfare. The conquest of space, too, benefits from cutting-edge advancements that could further humankind's reach into the cosmos. In the arena of robotics, sophisticated mechanisms and autonomous systems imply a paradigm shift in both industrial and personal settings. Transportation technologies are not left behind, with novel concepts having the potential to significantly impact how humans and goods traverse the globe.
It's important to note that inclusion in this evolving list doesn't guarantee widespread adoption. Instead, it is an acknowledgment of each technology's inherent capabilities and the promise they holdâshould research progress favorably and these developments not be eclipsed by alternative solutions. For those eager to delve deeper, in recent years, esteemed publications such as the MIT Technology Review have annually detailed ten breakthrough technologies, offering a closer look at what the future may hold.
Snorkeling involves a person floating face down in the water and breathing through a snorkelâa special tube that extends above the surface. The snorkeler wears a mask for clear underwater vision, and often uses fins for more efficient movement. In colder environments, a wetsuit can help maintain body heat. This easy and accessible activity allows individuals to enjoy the marine environment for extended periods without the intensive training or gear needed for scuba diving. Besides leisure, snorkeling is used for various water sports and search and rescue operations.
The essential items for snorkeling consist of the snorkel itself, a diving mask or swim goggles, and usually swimfins. Protection against the elements can vary from wetsuits to rash vests, depending on the region and conditions. While some snorkelers use waterproof sunscreens, there are concerns about their environmental impact. Additional equipment such as weightbelts help with diving, and snorkeling vests are available for extra safety on the water.
A snorkel enables the user to breathe while their face is submerged in the water by providing a passage of air from the surface. It can be a separately worn piece or attached to the diving mask.
Jet engines are sophisticated power plants that utilize heated, rapidly moving gases to create thrust based on jet propulsion. Although the term "jet engine" can be applied to various engines, including rockets, water jets, and hybrids, it generally denotes air-breathing internal combustion engines like turbojets, turbofans, ramjets, pulse jets, or scramjets.
These air-breathing jet engines operate by compressing incoming air (via a rotating compressor powered by a turbine), which is then mixed with fuel, combusts, and expands through a nozzle to propel the aircraft forward. This process, which is known as the Brayton cycle, is particularly effective for long-distance air travel. While early jets were equipped with turbojets suitable for fast, yet not fuel-efficient subsonic flight, modern subsonic jets often use advanced high-bypass turbofan engines that offer both speed and efficiency. High-speed jets intended for supersonic flight may forsake mechanical compressors in favor of the natural compression afforded by high-speed flight (ram effect), seen in ramjets and scramjets.
Advancements in jet engine technology have led to immense improvements in thrust and reliability. For instance, the thrust of jetliner engines increased dramatically from the 1950s to the 1990s, along with a significant decrease in the rate of in-flight shutdowns. These improvements, coupled with reduced fuel consumption, have enabled modern twin-engined airliners to cross oceans without the need for multiple refueling stops, a feat that was not routine until the end of the 20th century.
The concept of jet propulsion is ancient, but only realized its potential in the 20th century, building upon earlier ideas such as the aeolipile described by Hero of Alexandria in the first century.