* Basic research focuses on fundamental scientific knowledge, exploring new theories and principles. It's often driven by curiosity and a desire to expand understanding, with no immediate practical application in mind.
* Applied research, on the other hand, aims to solve specific problems or address practical needs. It takes existing knowledge and applies it to develop new technologies, products, or solutions.
So, while basic research seeks to understand the "why" of things, applied research seeks to understand the "how" to use that knowledge.