Final answer:
Fundamental research, also known as basic or pure research, is made for performing basic theoretical investigations without a direct practical application. Its primary goal is expanding knowledge about the essential principles and underlying mechanisms of phenomena. It differs from applied research which directly aims at solving immediate practical problems.
Step-by-step explanation:
Fundamental research, often termed as basic or pure research, is a type of scientific investigation that aims to expand knowledge and understanding of the underlying principles of phenomena without any immediate application in mind. The direct answer to the student's question is that fundamental research (a) is made for performing the basic or pure research; it's a theoretical research.
Basic research delves into questions like how certain cellular processes work, the underlying mechanisms of diseases, or fundamental principles of physics and chemistry without the goal of developing a product or service for immediate commercial value. However, this does not exclude the possibility that basic research may, in the long run, lead to practical applications. Science, including fields such as cell biology, genetics, molecular biology, and others, largely depend on fundamental research to build a foundation upon which applied research can build specific, practical applications.
Contrary to this, applied research focuses on solving practical problems and directly aims at developing technologies, products, or strategies that address specific needs or societal issues. While there is a clear distinction between pure and applied research, at times the divide can become blurred; as innovation often springs from basic discoveries, and many practical advancements lead back to fundamental principles.