Robots and Robotics

Ware et al. (2005:189) states that "a robot is a machine that can perform physical tasks with little or no outside help". This book also defines robotics as "the study of robots". It involves the design, programming and testing of robots and automated systems.

Wordnet defines robot as "a mechanism that can move automatically". It defines robotics as "the area of AI concerned with the practical use of robots".

From this information, I would define a robot as "a machine that can perform physical tasks automatically". I would define robotics as "the practical use and study of robots".

Referencing

Ware P, Cooke P, Opfer D, Wall J. (2005), Information and Software Technology 7-10, Jacaranda: Milton, QLD
Wordnet, Cognitive Science Laboratory: Princeton University retrieved 26 March 2007 from http://wordnet.princeton.edu/perl/webwn?s=robotics