Question: is your work practical or just research?

Leo Garcia answered on 14 Jun 2010:

I don’t see a difference between the two! Research is, generally, practical. If you mean – are there real-world applications of your research then yes!

You wouldn’t get funding for scientific work with no potential use to be had from it. Also, research bodies are happy to fund work even if the proposed benefits to mankind are several years down the line – it’s about having the foresight to recognise the potential in some proposed piece of science!