Question

scientists have collected large amounts of evidence that support the idea shown in the illustration below.
changes in earths surface
three images showing earths surface at 225 million years ago, 65 million years ago, and present day
which of the following is a scientific theory that is best supported by this evidence?

• evolution
• superposition
• plate tectonics
• universal gravitation

Explanation:

1. Evolution: Focuses on biological species change over time, not Earth’s surface movement. Eliminate.
2. Superposition: Deals with rock layer deposition (older layers below younger), unrelated to continental movement. Eliminate.
3. Plate Tectonics: Explains continental drift (movement of tectonic plates), matching the illustration of changing continental positions over time (225 million years ago to present). This theory directly supports the observed Earth’s surface changes.
4. Universal Gravitation: Describes gravitational force between masses, irrelevant to continental movement. Eliminate.

Answer:

C. plate tectonics