CAEC Science, Technology, and Society 3

Question 1

What is the 'digital divide,' and why is it a concern in Canada?

Accepted Answer

The gap in access to digital technology and the internet between different socioeconomic groups, regions, and demographics

Answer

The difference in screen size between smartphones and computers

Answer

The speed difference between 4G and 5G internet networks

Answer

A security threat caused by hackers dividing networks

Question 2

What is 'planned obsolescence' in the context of technology?

Accepted Answer

A design practice where products are intentionally made with limited lifespan so consumers must buy replacements sooner

Answer

A strategy to make technology last as long as possible

Answer

A government policy requiring companies to recycle old electronics

Answer

The natural process by which technology becomes outdated over time

Question 3

What is the precautionary principle in science and technology policy?

Accepted Answer

The principle that when an action or technology poses a potential risk to people or the environment, precautionary measures should be taken even before scientific certainty is established

Answer

The principle that new technologies should never be developed

Answer

The principle that all scientific experiments must be conducted with caution in laboratories

Answer

A rule requiring all new medications to be tested on animals first

Question 4

How has technology changed the nature of work in the 21st century?

Accepted Answer

Technology has enabled remote work, automation, gig economy platforms, and new industries while eliminating some traditional jobs

Answer

Technology has made all jobs simpler and required less education

Answer

Technology has had no significant effect on employment patterns

Answer

Technology has only affected manufacturing and has not changed office work

Question 5

What is 'e-waste,' and why is it an environmental concern?

Accepted Answer

Discarded electronic devices that often contain toxic materials and are difficult to recycle safely

Answer

Digital files that take up too much computer memory

Answer

Electronic advertisements sent by email (spam)

Answer

Electrical energy wasted by inefficient appliances

Question 6

In Canada, how are new pharmaceuticals regulated before they can be prescribed to patients?

Accepted Answer

Health Canada reviews clinical trial evidence for safety and efficacy before approving drugs for use

Answer

They are approved by individual hospitals on a case-by-case basis

Answer

Pharmaceutical companies self-certify their own drugs without government oversight

Answer

New drugs are approved automatically if they are already licensed in the United States