Unit 1 Vocab Flashcards

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Hypothesis

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A proposed explanation for a phenomenon made as a starting point for further investigation.

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Theory

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A well-substantiated explanation acquired through the scientific method and repeatedly tested and confirmed through observation and experimentation.

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Law

Back

A statement based on repeated experimental observations that describes some phenomenon of nature and can be represented by a mathematical formula.

Front

Nebular Theory

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Every solar system forms from a single nebula with lighter elements on the edges and heavier elements in the middle.

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Nebula

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A cloud of elemental gas, dust, and debris, in space.

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Heavy Element

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Dense elements towards the bottom of the periodic table that tend to form rocky, terrestrial planets.

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Light Element

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Elements towards the top of the periodic table that tend to form gaseous, jovian planets.

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Terrestrial Planet

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A planet, like Earth, primarily composed of layers of rocks, minerals, and metals.

Front

The Early Atmosphere

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This stage of Earth’s atmosphere is/was mostly Hydrogen and Helium because those are the most abundant gasses in nebulas.

Front

The 2nd Atmosphere

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This stage of Earth’s atmosphere is/was primarily composed of volcanic gasses like carbon dioxide, ammonia, and water vapor.