Technology of the Past And Its Influence on

Technology of the Past… And Its Influence on the Present and the Future PARKER SASSE

1930’s Invention: Electron Microscope Year: 1933 Use: Made it possible to view things as small as the diameter of an atom. Affect on Today and the Future: Allowed the analysis of many science fields today, including cells, DNA, and atoms. May help find the cure for cancer.

1940’s Invention: Atomic Bomb Year: 1945 Use: To decimate whatever you wanted. And to win WWII Affect on Today and the Future: While it ended WWll, it inevitably gave every nation with one the power to end thousands of lives in a minute or two, with long lasting effects as a bonus. Nuclear war is now a possibility.

1950’s Invention: Solar Cell Year: 1954 Use: Alternate form of Energy from Electricity Affect on Today and the Future: More efficient and safe technology with massive potential as our best alternate.

1960’s Invention: BASIC computer language Year: 1964 Use: coding the processes of computers and other electronics Affect on Today and the Future: Every electronic function we use today is possible because of coding. Every game, software, and program was created because of this first language, which led to more complex languages and more advanced programs.

1970’s Invention: Microprocessor Year: 1971 Use: Acts as a faster processor than other chips, and “could do the work of 12 chips. ” Affect on Today and the Future: Microprocessors run most major electronics today, including our phones and computers. They have advanced 1000 fold since the 1970 s and will continue to be improved in the future.

1980’s Invention: Major Operating Systems Year(s): ‘ 81, ‘ 84, and ‘ 85 Use: These are the first major operating systems to take over the OS market. They include MS-DOS, Macintosh, and Windows. They run computers. Affect on Today and the Future: While OS were used almost exclusively for computers, they have now spread as the things that run mobile devices now as well. As we see the continuation of making technology more mobile, OS will be sure to follow.

1990’s Invention: The World Wide Web Year: 1990 Use: Does this really need an explanation? You can surf any website, from anywhere, and communicate with anyone, anytime. Unless you’re in China. Affect on Today and the Future: The web is undeniably the most important invention thus far. It is also the most influential. The ability for worldwide communication and trade at the push of a button has changed our world dramatically and will continue

2000’s Invention: i. Pod Year: 2001 Use: Portable Music Player Affect on Today and the Future: The i. Pod paved the way for portable music and entertainment, and is now the base for most mobile devices, with the addition of phone functions.

2010’s Invention: Nuclear Fusion Year: 2014 Use: A reactor that generates more energy and fuel than what was put in it. Affect on Today and the Future: Some scientists expect this technology to be ready for mass use within a decade. It’s potential for endless energy is insane. Input x amount of fuel, the reactor outputs more than x amount of fuel. Then, put x amount back in, and keep the leftover energy. It will undoubtedly revolutionize energy.