The correct option is Expanding Universe Hypothesis.
Explanation
The Big Bang Theory is the prevailing cosmological model describing the birth and evolution of the universe. It suggests that the universe originated from a singular, extremely dense, and hot point and has been expanding outward ever since.
Detailed Analysis:
- Expanding Universe Hypothesis is Correct: The Big Bang Theory is alternatively known as the Expanding Universe Hypothesis. This terminology was solidified after Edwin Hubble (1920) provided observational evidence that galaxies are moving away from one another, indicating that the universe is increasing in size.
- Steady State Hypothesis is Incorrect: The Steady State Hypothesis (proposed by Hoyle) posits that the universe is constant, has no beginning or end, and does not change with time. This stands in direct contradiction to the Big Bang Theory.
- Nebular Hypothesis is Incorrect: The Nebular Hypothesis (associated with Kant and Laplace) is an early theory explaining the origin of the Solar System (specifically the formation of the Sun and planets from a nebulous cloud), not the origin of the entire universe.
- Binary Star Hypothesis is Incorrect: The Binary Star Hypothesis (proposed by Lyttleton) is another theory regarding the origin of the Solar System, suggesting the Sun had a companion star that interacted with a passing star to form the planets.
Key Takeaway: The Big Bang Theory is synonymous with the Expanding Universe Hypothesis, which is supported by the observation that the distance between galaxies is continuously increasing.