Science writer: Lemaitre argued that the universe began with the explosion of a "primeval atom," a singular point of ...

Sabrina on October 23, 2019

Explanation

Please explain how to arrive at the correct answer. Thanks!

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on October 23, 2019

Hello @Sabrinamc,

We are given two theories: primeval atom theory and oscillating universe theory. Both theories predict galaxies accelerating apart, which is known to be true. Therefore, we do not know which theory is correct. Because the predictions came true, either theory could be correct.

The problem with this argument is that we don't have evidence against either theory. Therefore, how can we conclude that one theory is incorrect? We cannot, we have no support to do so. This is best expressed by answer choice D. Just because oscillating universe theory had a correct prediction, it doesn't prove that Lemaitre was wrong.