Question

How is plate tectonics a theory?

Answer 1

Hint: A validated theory is a hypothesis based on facts and universally accepted results and predictable arguments about the feature which are scientifically proven. It usually begins as a hypothesis and ends with a corollary.

Complete answer:
The plate tectonics theory talks about the movements of the different parts of the Earth's surface due to which the formation of landmasses on the earth is in the present shape. Since the Continents of the World have their shapes well in accordance with the different postulates of the Plate tectonics theory, it is valid as a theory.

Also, the Plate tectonics theory talks about different earthquake zones and that there are some areas which will be prone to earthquakes which is true. The theory has also talked about the different zones of the earth due to which it can be predicted that which area will experience more earthquakes. So, it is valid as a theory since the acceptable theories can make better predictions about the future.

The plate tectonic theory also states that the gap between the rift valleys will widen over time which has been seen and observed and scientifically been proven by geologists around the world. Hence, this is true postulate which makes this theory valid.

Note: There are various news sources that say that the Plate tectonics theory is not true or partially true but so far the validation of the Plate tectonics theory has not been defeated yet. Therefore, the Plate Tectonics will remain a theory and shall be treated as a valid one until another theory replaces it.