Final answer:
The key difference between the prototyping life cycle and the spiral method is that the former focuses on continuous prototype development, testing, and refinement, while the latter is a risk-driven model that combines elements of design and prototyping with a strong emphasis on planning, risk analysis, and structured iteration, primarily used in software development.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student has inquired about the difference between the prototyping life cycle and the spiral method. The prototyping life cycle is an iterative process in which designs are continuously developed, prototyped, tested, evaluated, and refined based on the insights gained from each iteration. With each prototype, the strengths and weaknesses are better understood, and the design is refined accordingly. This cycle may include creating physical models or using computer simulations to test the design. The key element in this approach is the repeated iteration of testing and improving the prototype.
On the other hand, the spiral method, also known as the spiral model, is a risk-driven process model used for software development. This model combines elements of both design and prototyping-in-stages, in an effort to combine advantages of top-down and bottom-up concepts. It is characterized by repeated iterations or 'spirals' where each loop involves the phases of planning, risk analysis, engineering, and evaluation. Each spiral ends with a review that leads to the next spiral, with the goal of continual improvement and refinement of the project.
The main difference between the two is that while both are iterative, the prototyping life cycle is more focused on the development of prototypes and may not incorporate as many planning and risk analysis phases as the spiral method does. The spiral method, which is often applied in software development, includes more explicit risk management and is typically more structured.