15.5k views
5 votes
Why is the theory of plate tectonics considered a theory and not a hypothesis

Why is the theory of plate tectonics considered a theory and not a hypothesis-example-1
User Stypox
by
3.9k points

2 Answers

4 votes

Answer:

Plate tectonics is the theory that Earth's outer shell is divided into several plates that glide over the mantle, the rocky inner layer above the core. The plates act like a hard and rigid shell compared to Earth's mantle.

Step-by-step explanation:

User Kaleena
by
4.1k points
5 votes

Answer:

"Because there is strong evidence to support it"

Step-by-step explanation:

Theories are generated with lists of tests and comparison, as hypothesis are only generated by observation. In fact, hypothesis are part of the process to generate theory.

User Organic Advocate
by
4.5k points