Questions: The concept that geological processes operating now are the same processes that operated in the past is the principle of uniformitarianism catastrophism plate tectonics superposition

The answer is the first one: uniformitarianism.

Explanation for each option:

1. Uniformitarianism: This principle states that the geological processes we observe in the present have been operating in the same manner throughout Earth's history. It suggests that by understanding current geological processes, we can infer the geological history of the Earth. This is the correct answer.

2. Catastrophism: This principle suggests that Earth's geological features are the result of sudden, short-lived, violent events, such as earthquakes or volcanic eruptions. While catastrophism does play a role in geology, it is not the principle described in the question.

3. Plate Tectonics: This theory explains the movement of Earth's lithospheric plates and how they shape the Earth's surface. While it is a fundamental concept in geology, it does not specifically address the continuity of geological processes over time as described in the question.

4. Superposition: This principle is used in stratigraphy and states that in any sequence of undisturbed sedimentary rocks, the oldest layers are at the bottom and the youngest layers are at the top. It is not related to the continuity of geological processes over time.

Summary: The principle that geological processes operating now are the same processes that operated in the past is known as uniformitarianism.