The distinction between basic research and applied research is that basic research: a. relies on the fundamental sciences such as chemistry or biology, whereas applied research relies on the social sciences such as psychology or sociology. b. relies on the social sciences such as psychology or sociology, whereas applied research relies on the fundamental sciences such as chemistry or biology. c. focuses on fundamental questions, often of a theoretical nature, whereas applied research focuses on identifying and resolving practical problems. d. focuses on identifying and resolving practical problems, whereas applied research focuses on fundamental questions, often of a theoretical nature.