In your own words, give the scientific definitions for ‘hypothesis’ and ‘theory.’ What is the difference between the two terms, and what is the difference between the scientific meaning and the way these words are commonly used? (6 points)
Scientific hypothesis is some testable claim that aims to explain observed phenomena which were not previously explained by the scientific theories. Scientific hypothesis is formulated to be further tested experimentally.
Scientific theory is a set of propositions which explains some natural phenomena and is verified experimentally. Technically, scientific theory is a hypothesis or several hypotheses repeatedly confirmed through experiment.
Scientific notations of these terms are usually different from common life notations. When saying ‘hypothesis’ people usually mean some guess or a proposition that is not necessarily going to be tested experimentally or is even testable. When saying ‘theory’ they usually mean some explanation which is only theoretical, but not necessarily confirmed experimentally.
In a sentence each and in your own words describe what the Principle of Original Horizontality and the Principle of Superposition are. (8 points)
Principle of Original Horizontality states that sedimentary rock, when not deformed, is deposited in horizontal layers because of gravity.
Principle of Superposition says that newer layers of rock are formed above the older layers of rock. In layer sequences, the lower the layer is situated, the older it is.
In a couple sentences, explain Hutton’s principle of uniformitarianism, and why it’s important in Earth Science. (8 points)
Hutton’s principle of uniformitarianism states that present landforms were formed by natural processes through uniform changes lasting for millions of years. This principle was a huge step forward for Earth Science because it explained the formation of landforms through natural processes and not catastrophes or divine intervention.
What are you most excited to learn this semester in GEOL 101? (3 points)
I would like to learn about how different rocks and landforms came into being. I also want to find out more about the history of the Earth.
