3.1 The Cycle of Scientific Enterprise in Earth Sciences

Question 1

Cycle of Scientific Enterprise

Answer 1

The process of forming a theory to account for a body of facts, then formulating testable hypotheses based on the theory, then testing the hypotheses experimentally and analyzing the results. If the hypothesis is confirmed, the theory is strengthened. If the hypothesis is not confirmed, a review is made.

Question 2

Experiment

Answer 2

A scientific test of a hypothesis.

Question 3

Greenhouse effect

Answer 3

A theory that states that gases in Earth’s atmosphere absorb electromagnetic radiation that keeps the Earth’s surface warmer than it would be without the gases.

Question 4

Hypothesis

Answer 4

An informed prediction based on a theory.

Question 5

Oceanic circulation

Answer 5

A theory that explains how currents of water in the ocean are produced.

Question 6

Plate tectonics

Answer 6

A theory that states that Earth’s lithosphere is composed of moving plates and explains why these movements occur and the phenomena that result from the movement.

Question 7

Scientific fact

Answer 7

A statement that is supported by a large amount of evidence, and that is correct so far as we know.

Question 8

Theory

Answer 8

A mental model that explains how something in the universe works.