The Scientific Method, A Cyclical And Self Correcting Process

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Recommended: The theory of continental drift

Name: Amanda Kranning SCI101 Unit 4 Individual Project Instructor’s Name: Kristina Jantz Due Date: January Read the following passage: The scientific method is a cyclical and self-correcting process that involves several steps. Observations and collecting qualitative and quantitative evidence are important to make predictions and to develop a theory. Scientific breakthroughs do not happen overnight. Sometimes, the missing piece of the scientific puzzle takes years to discover. In 1915, Alfred Wegener proposed the theory of continental drift to explain the past and present location of the continents; however, his ideas were met with resistance because he could not provide evidence that would support his hypothesis. Later oceanographers, geologists, and scientists collected more information to verify and explain the theory. In the 1960s, the mechanism and processes were explained by plate tectonic theory. With advancements in science and technology, scientists are still collecting more information. Answer each of the following questions in your own words and in 3–5 sentences: 1. What is continental drift? The continental drift was a theory comprised from the scientist Alfred Wegener. His thoughts were that at one time the continents were of one space or an “Urkontinent” in his words. He theorized that the land had been drifting apart for centuries. 2. What was Alfred Wegener’s hypothesis for continental drift, and why was his idea not accepted? Wegener hypothesized that at one time all continents were joined together in a "supercontinent". The supercontinent eventually broke into the smaller continents, which then drifted towards their present positions. (University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, n.d.) His fellow community based so... ... middle of paper ... ... Things, 2002) References CEC. (2013). SCI 101 [APPLYING SCIENTIFIC METHODS]. Retrieved from Colorado Technical University Virtual Campus, SCI101-1601A-07. Introduction to Sciences: https://campus.ctuonline.edu Fitcher, L., & Baedke, S. (2000, September 13). Plate Tectonic Theory: Plates and Interplate Relationships. Retrieved from http://csmres.jmu.edu/geollab/vageol/vahist/plates.html Science of Everyday Things. (2002). plate tectonics Facts, information, pictures | Encyclopedia.com articles about plate tectonics. Retrieved from http://www.encyclopedia.com/topic/plate_tectonics.aspx University of Winnipeg. (1999, September 29). Plate boundaries. Retrieved from http://theory.uwinnipeg.ca/mod_tech/node193.html University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. (n.d.). CONTINENTAL DRIFT. Retrieved from http://www4.uwsp.edu/geo/faculty/ozsvath/lectures/Continental_Drift.htm

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