universe

Evolution of the Universe and Good Science

As you gaze upon the evening stars, do you ever think about the how these glimmering jewels were formed? Have you ever wondered about the creation of Solar System? The Nebular Hypothesis and the Big Bang Theory attempt to explain how our universe and Solar System came to be. In this Application, you will have the opportunity to explain the similarities and differences between the Nebular Hypothesis and the Big Bang Theory.

Questions about this assignment? Post them in the Contact the Instructor area. That way, everyone in the class will see, and benefit from, the Instructor's response.

To prepare for this Application:

· Review the "Big Bang Theory" on pages 30–34 in the course text, The Good Earth.

· Review the Web sites Planet Formation (How do planets form?) http://hubblesite.org/hubble_discoveries/discovering_planets_beyond/how-do-planets-form and Nebular Theory (Nebular Hypothesis) http://science.howstuffworks.com/dictionary/astronomy-terms/nebular-hypothesis-info.htm .

· Review the "Characteristics of Good Science" on pages 11–15 in the course text, The Good Earth.

·

· Consider the factors that make good science. Which explanation of the evolution of the Universe more closely adheres to these principles?

The assignment:

· Write a 2-page paper in which you:

·

· Compare the Big Bang theory to the Nebular Hypothesis. How are they similar and different?

· How are these theories consistent with the characteristics of good science from Week 1?

·

· If you were asked to choose one of the theories as being "better" or "more plausible" than the other one, based on the evidence existing, which theory would you choose, and why?