What is the Difference Between Invention and Discovery?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The main difference between invention and discovery lies in the nature of the entities involved. Here are the key differences between the two:
- Discovery: A discovery is the act of recognizing something that already exists but has not been found before. It involves the exploration and finding of something that has been present in the world but has not been noticed or recognized by anyone. Discoveries are usually natural occurrences and cannot be patented. They often occur by accident but can also result from sustained research and inquiry.
- Invention: An invention is the creation of something new and unique using one's own ideas and development. Inventions are man-made or scientific accomplishments made through the willpower and creativity of individuals. They involve the process of experimentation and can be patented by their creators. Inventions typically occur through sustained research and inquiry.
In summary, a discovery is the recognition of something that already exists but has not been found before, while an invention is the creation of something new and unique using one's own ideas and development.
On this pageWhat is the Difference Between Invention and Discovery? Comparative Table: Invention vs Discovery
Comparative Table: Invention vs Discovery
Here is a table highlighting the differences between invention and discovery:
Feature | Discovery | Invention |
---|---|---|
Definition | Discovery involves the process of exploration and identifying something that already exists but has not been found before. Invention involves the process of creating something entirely new using one's knowledge, hard work, and skills. | |
Process | Discovery usually occurs through exploration and observation of the natural world. Invention involves experimentation and the application of human creativity and willpower. | |
Patentability | Discoveries cannot be patented. Inventions can be patented by their creators, giving them exclusive rights to the invention for a specific period. | |
Occurrence | Discoveries often happen by accident, although not always. Inventions usually result from sustained research and enquiry. |
Discovery refers to finding or recognizing something that already exists but has not been found before, such as the discovery of the Americas by Christopher Columbus. On the other hand, invention is the creation of something new and unique, like Thomas Edison's invention of the light bulb.
Read more:
- Creation vs Invention
- Innovation vs Invention
- Explore vs Discover
- Entrepreneur vs Inventor
- Creativity vs Innovation
- Inquiry vs Investigation
- Change vs Innovation
- Innovation vs Entrepreneurship
- Science vs Technology
- Copyright vs Patent
- Science vs Engineering
- Idea vs Concept
- Opportunity vs Idea
- Creation vs Creationism
- Creativity vs Imagination
- Search vs Research
- Inductive vs Deductive Research
- Research vs Scientific Method
- Research vs Problem Solving