Q1.

define engineering research & list its aims& objectives

ANS: Engineering Research is defined as a systematic, objective, and thorough process aimed at solving
engineering problems, gaining new knowledge, or improving current technologies. It involves careful
investigation, analysis, and interpretation of data to generate useful insights and findings that contribute to
the field of engineering.
Aims and Objectives of Engineering Research:
1. Exploratory Research: To gain familiarity with a phenomenon and achieve new insights.
2. Descriptive Research : To accurately describe the characteristics of an individual, group, or situation.
3. Diagnostic Research : To determine the frequency of occurrence or association between phenomena.
4. Hypothesis .Testing Research : To test hypotheses and identify relationships between variables.
5. Solve New Problems : Address new and important engineering challenges.
6. Contribute to Knowledge : Develop theoretical or applied knowledge.
7. Improve Engineering Practices : Conduct thorough research to help prevent failures and improve
decision .making in engineering projects.
8. Innovation and Understanding : Even when results aren’t achieved, understanding failures is a
contribution toward the ongoing body of knowledge in the field.

Q2. What is Engineering Research? What are the primary objectives of conducting research in engineering?
ANS: Engineering Research is a systematic and methodical approach to solving problems, discovering new
knowledge, and improving technologies. It involves scientific investigation, data analysis, and interpretation
to create new insights, processes, or products, focusing on both theoretical and applied aspects to advance
current technologies or develop new solutions.
Primary Objectives of Conducting Research in Engineering:
1. Problem .Solving : To find solutions to new and important engineering challenges.
2. Knowledge Expansion : To generate new theoretical or applied knowledge that contributes to the field.
3. Innovation : To develop innovative technologies, systems, or processes.
4. Understanding Failures : To understand why certain solutions or results cannot be achieved,
contributing to ongoing research even when results are negative.
5. Accuracy in Decision .Making : To conduct thorough research that helps prevent failures and enhances
decision .making in engineering practice.
6. Testing Hypotheses : To test causal relationships between variables and confirm or reject hypotheses.

Q3. What are the various types of engineering research? Explain. Compare descriptive research versus
analytical research with examples.
ANS: Types of Engineering Research:
1. Descriptive Research : Involves fact .finding and analysis to describe the current state of a system or
technology. The researcher has no control over variables, merely observing and reporting. For example, a
study documenting the number of electric vehicles in a city.
2. Analytical Research : Involves critical evaluation of existing data and facts. It focuses on understanding
relationships between variables through analysis. For example, analyzing the efficiency of different electric
vehicle models based on existing data.
3. Applied Research : Aimed at solving practical, real .world problems, such as designing a more efficient
solar panel for immediate application.
4. Fundamental (Basic) Research : Focuses on expanding knowledge and developing theories, often
without immediate practical application. For instance, researching quantum physics principles to understand
energy behavior.
5. Quantitative Research : Involves the collection of numerical data to make statistical observations. For
example, measuring the strength of different materials in construction.
6. Qualitative Research : Focuses on non .numerical data like observations or interviews. For instance,
studying engineers' perceptions of new safety protocols.
7. Conceptual Research : Focuses on developing new theories or concepts, often used in philosophical or
theoretical studies. For example, creating a new model for sustainable urban development.
8. Empirical Research : Relies on direct observation or experiments to gather data. For example,
conducting experiments to test the tensile strength of a new alloy.
Comparison of Descriptive and Analytical Research:
- Descriptive Research :
. Purpose : To describe a phenomenon or situation as it exists.
. Example : A survey documenting the number of solar energy users in a region.
. Characteristics : Does not involve control over variables, purely observational.
. Analytical Research :
. Purpose : To analyze and interpret data, understanding relationships between variables.
. Example : Analyzing the relationship between solar energy usage and energy costs across different
regions.
. Characteristics : Involves critical analysis of existing data or experiments to find patterns or
correlations.

Q4. Explain Fabrication, Falsification and Plagiarism related to engineering research

ANS: In engineering research, Fabrication , Falsification , and Plagiarism are considered serious forms of
research misconduct:

1. Fabrication : The act of creating or inventing data or results that were never obtained. This involves
making up experiments or data points to support a hypothesis. Example: Reporting that an experiment was
conducted when it wasn't, and providing false results.
2. Falsification : The manipulation of research data, processes, or results to misrepresent the actual
findings. This could involve altering measurements, images, or results to fit desired outcomes. Example:
Changing experimental data to support a hypothesis even if the real data contradicts it.
3. Plagiarism : Using someone else’s work, ideas, or text without proper attribution, presenting it as your
own. This includes copying sections of research papers, data, or concepts without citing the original source.
Example: Copying large parts of a research article into your paper without crediting the original author.

Q5. Write a note on the following research misconduct (i) Falsification (ii) plagiarism.
ANS:
1. Falsification:
Falsification involves manipulating research data, methods, or results to mislead or distort the findings.
This can include altering or omitting data, misrepresenting procedures, or tampering with results to make the
research appear more successful or align with a desired hypothesis. Falsification undermines the integrity of
the research process, leading to incorrect conclusions and potentially harmful consequences in engineering
applications.
Example: Changing measurements in a materials strength test to falsely demonstrate that a material meets
safety standards.
2.Plagiarism:
Plagiarism is the act of using someone else's work, ideas, or text without proper acknowledgment,
presenting it as your own. This includes copying sections of research papers, using others' data or concepts,
and failing to credit the original authors. Plagiarism is unethical because it disrespects the intellectual
contributions of others and misrepresents the plagiarizer's work as original.
Example: Copying a published research paper's content without citation and submitting it as part of a
thesis or research article.
Q6. What ethical considerations and responsibilities should be taken into account when determining
authorship in Engineering research?
ANS: Ethical Considerations and Responsibilities in Determining Authorship in Engineering Research:
1. Significant Contribution : Authorship should be granted only to those who have made substantial
contributions to the research, including the conception, design, execution, or interpretation of the study.
Merely assisting with routine tasks or data collection doesn't qualify for authorship.
2. Accountability : All authors are responsible for the content of the paper, including its accuracy and
integrity. Each listed author must approve the final version and be accountable for their contribution to the
research.
3. Transparency : The order of authorship should reflect the level of contribution made by each individual.
It's unethical to include “guest” or “gift” authors who have not contributed significantly.
4. Avoiding Ghost Authorship : It is unethical to omit individuals who have made significant
contributions, even if they prefer to remain unnamed due to conflicts of interest or other reasons.
5. Fair Recognition : Junior researchers or students who have made meaningful contributions must be
recognized as authors, and it is unethical to withhold authorship from them to favor senior researchers or
supervisors.
6. Avoiding Double Submission : Submitting the same work to multiple journals simultaneously is
unethical, as it can distort the academic record and waste editorial resources.
Q7. How do researchers distinguish between new and existing knowledge during a literature review?
ANS: Researchers dis nguish between new and exis ng knowledge during a literature review by following several
key prac ces.

1. Contextualizing New Knowledge: New knowledge is interpreted within the framework of existing
knowledge. It relies on the foundation built by previous research to highlight gaps and opportunities
for innovation. Existing knowledge is used to make the case for the problem at hand and demonstrate
its importance.
2. Identifying Gaps: By thoroughly surveying existing literature, researchers are able to pinpoint
missing elements or unresolved issues in prior work. This helps define what is new or original in
their research, which contributes to filling these gaps.
3. Comparing and Synthesizing: Researchers analyze various sources, compare findings, and
synthesize the results to identify patterns, contradictions, or underexplored areas. This synthesis
allows them to build upon what is already known and contribute novel insights(module-2-pdf)
(module-1-pdf).
4. Methodical Categorization: During the review, sources are methodically categorized by topics or
concepts, making it easier to differentiate between existing work and areas where new contributions
are needed.

Q8. How can researchers effectively use search engines to find relevant in their fields?
ANS: Researchers can effec vely use search engines to find relevant informa on by following these strategies:
1. Utilize Advanced Search Tools: Use advanced features to filter results by keywords, publication
type, and date. For example, tools like Web of Science allow searches by title, author, and citations.
2. Keyword Selection: Choose specific and related keywords, using quotation marks for exact phrases
to narrow searches.
3. Employ Boolean Operators: Use operators like AND, OR, and NOT to refine searches and capture
a broader range of articles.
4. Leverage Scholarly Databases: Use academic databases that index peer-reviewed articles for better
quality control and focused results.
5. Examine References and Citations: Analyze references in relevant articles to find additional
significant studies.
6. Iterative Search Process: Experiment with different keywords and modify search criteria as needed;
regularly revisit the literature.
7. Critical Evaluation of Sources: Assess the credibility of sources based on author credentials and
relevance to ensure reliability.
8. Stay Updated: Set up alerts for keywords or topics of interest to keep informed about new
publications.

Q9. What challenges do researchers commonly face when reading mathematical content or algorithm.
ANS: Researchers encounter several challenges when reading mathema cal content or algorithms:
 1. Complex Derivations: Mathematical proofs and derivations can be dense and complicated, requiring
thorough reading rather than skimming.
2. Understanding Algorithms: Grasping intricate algorithms demands a solid foundation in the
underlying mathematical principles.
3. Error-Prone Implementation: Implementing algorithms in programming languages often leads to
errors, necessitating quick coding and testing to validate functionality(module-2-pdf).
4. Bridging Theory and Practice: Researchers may struggle to apply theoretical concepts to practical
scenarios, making it challenging to translate mathematics into real-world applications.
5. Cognitive Load: The significant cognitive effort required to understand abstract mathematical
concepts can lead to fatigue and difficulty in maintaining focus.
6. Relevance of Content: Navigating extensive literature to identify relevant mathematical content or
algorithms can be challenging(module-2-pdf).

Q10. What is impact of Title and Keywords on Citations? Explain citation based knowledge flow.
ANS Impact of Title and Keywords on Citations
1. Title Importance: The title is crucial as it indicates the research area and enhances visibility. A well-
crafted title attracts readers and improves traceability(module-2-pdf).
2. Title Length and Type: Longer, descriptive titles tend to garner more citations, while titles with
question marks or regional references usually receive fewer(module-2-pdf).
3. Keywords Role: Keywords are essential for categorizing research and directing the paper to relevant
audiences. Including multiple keywords can significantly increase citation likelihood(module-2-pdf).
Citation-Based Knowledge Flow
1. Knowledge Transmission: Citations facilitate the transmission of knowledge, connecting new work
to previous studies, which is essential for advancing scientific concepts.
2. Collaboration and Networks: Knowledge flow occurs through collaboration, creating networks that
enhance research quality and foster innovation(module-2-pdf).
3. Interdisciplinary Connections: The interconnected nature of research promotes collaboration
across disciplines, enriching the academic community(module-2-pdf).

Q11. List the different types of research misconduct and provide a brief explanation for each one.
ANS: The types of research misconduct include:
1. Fabrication: This involves the illegitimate creation of data or experiments. Researchers fabricate
data when they conjure results without actual experimentation, often due to pressure to deliver
results quickly.
2. Falsification: This refers to the inappropriate alteration of data or experiments. It includes
misrepresenting or manipulating results to support a desired hypothesis, which can lead to
misleading conclusions(module-1-pdf).
3. Plagiarism: This occurs when someone uses or reuses another person's work (text, data, tables, etc.)
without proper attribution, presenting it as their own. Self-plagiarism, or reusing one’s own
previously published work without acknowledgment, is also considered misconduct.
 4. Ghostwriting: This involves failing to credit individuals who significantly contributed to the
research or writing process. Such individuals may be left off the author list, leading to ethical
concerns regarding authorship.
5. Coercive Citation: This refers to the pressure on researchers to cite specific articles to benefit the
editor's or publisher's interests. This practice can skew the integrity of citations.
6. Double Submission: This is the act of submitting the same research paper to multiple journals
simultaneously, violating publication policies and creating ethical dilemmas regarding originality.

Q12. Define the term Citation. Describe the three functions of Citation.
ANS: Citation:- A citation is a reference to the works of other authors in a research document, providing a
way for readers to trace the original sources. It ensures proper credit is given, helps avoid plagiarism, and
connects new work to existing literature.
Functions of Citation
1. Verification Function: Citations allow readers to verify the accuracy of the information presented.
They provide a means for assessing whether the original source has been represented correctly and
whether the assertions made in the current work are justified.
2. Acknowledgment Function: Through citations, researchers receive credit for their contributions.
This function is crucial for enhancing their professional reputation and securing funding, as many
organizations consider citation counts when evaluating researchers' credentials.
3. Documentation Function: Citations serve to document the evolution of scientific concepts and the
historical progression of technologies. They create a record that can help trace the development of
ideas over time.

Q13. Explain how knowledge flows through a citation network using a flow diagram
ANS:

Explanation of the Diagram:

1. Research Papers: Each paper represents a node in the citation network. When Paper A cites Paper
B, knowledge flows from A to B, indicating that the findings or ideas from Paper A have been built
upon or referenced in Paper B.
 2. Authors: Each paper is linked to its authors. As papers are cited, the authors receive recognition for
their contributions, creating a network of influence among researchers.
3. Institutions: The citation network also reflects collaborations between different institutions. When
papers are cited across institutions, it fosters collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Knowledge Flow Mechanism:
 Citations as Knowledge Transmission: When one paper cites another, it transmits knowledge,
linking previous work to current research. This can lead to new innovations based on established
findings.
 Collaboration: Co-authorship and citations among researchers foster networks that improve research
quality and drive advancements across disciplines.

Q14. What are the key features of the bibliographic database of the Web of Science (WoS), and how is it
commonly used in research?
ANS: Key Features of the Web of Science (WoS)
1. Multiple Databases: WoS encompasses various databases across disciplines, facilitating
comprehensive research.
2. Advanced Search Functionality: Users can search by specific fields (title, author, topic) and sort
results by citation count and publication date.
3. Cited Reference Search: This feature allows researchers to trace articles that cite a particular paper,
showing the evolution of ideas.
4. Refine Results Panel: Researchers can narrow searches by keywords, publication types, languages,
and dates for more relevant results.
5. Comprehensive Information: Each result includes details like title, authors, journal info, abstract,
and keywords, aiding in evaluating relevance.
Common Uses of Web of Science in Research
1. Literature Reviews: Used for thorough reviews to build research foundations.
2. Tracking Citations: Allows researchers to see how often their work is cited and by whom.
3. Identifying Trends: Helps spot emerging trends and developments in specific fields.
4. Collaboration Opportunities: Researchers can find potential collaborators based on citation
networks.