I think this topic is terminally off-topic, so I will reply to Cynic1:
quote:
I hate it when scientists steal words. Take "accelerate" for example. To normal people, it means "go faster." To science people, it means "to change velocity."...
Indeed there are "common use" definitions, and more precise "scientific" definitions. In science "speed" and "velocity" are not the same. Speed is a rate of movement, and velocity is a rate of movement in a specific direction. Velocity is a vector quantity. An accelerating force can change the direction of movement, while the speed remains constant. A change in velocity without a change in speed. Also, in science, a slowing of speed may be looked upon as a result of a negative acceleration.
quote:
The same thing happened with evolution. In common parlance, the word "evolution" simply means change over time...
Indeed, that is the broad definition of evolution (see my "evolution" quote, in my signature). Thus the "fact" of the evolution of life. The nature of life on Earth has changed over time. The theory of (biological) evolution is the best scientific attempt at explaining the processes of the change.
Moose
Professor, geology, Whatsamatta U
Evolution - Changes in the environment, caused by the interactions of the components of the environment.
"Do not meddle in the affairs of cats, for they are subtle and will piss on your computer." - Bruce Graham
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