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Questions and Answers
Which one of these is the best definition of a scientific theory?
Which one of these is the best definition of a scientific theory?
- An untested hypothesis
- A guess about how or why something happens
- A fact that has been proven
- A broad explanation for events that is widely accepted as true (correct)
What is the main difference between the way the word 'theory' is used in everyday language and in science?
What is the main difference between the way the word 'theory' is used in everyday language and in science?
- The word 'theory' is not used in everyday language
- In everyday language, theory means a guess, while in science it means a fact (correct)
- In everyday language, theory means a fact, while in science it means a guess
- There is no difference
Which of the following is an example of a scientific theory?
Which of the following is an example of a scientific theory?
- Evolution (correct)
- A hypothesis that has been tested once
- A guess about how or why something happens
- An untested idea
What is required for a hypothesis to become a scientific theory?
What is required for a hypothesis to become a scientific theory?
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Which of the following was a theory that was later disproved?
Which of the following was a theory that was later disproved?
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Study Notes
Scientific Theories
- A scientific theory is a well-substantiated explanation for a set of phenomena, repeatedly tested and supported by a vast amount of data.
Everyday Language vs Science
- In everyday language, 'theory' implies a guess or speculation, but in science, it refers to a rigorously tested and widely accepted explanation.
Examples of Scientific Theories
- Gravity is an example of a scientific theory, as it explains the phenomenon of objects attracting each other.
Hypothesis to Theory
- A hypothesis becomes a scientific theory when it is extensively tested, supported by empirical evidence, and widely accepted by the scientific community.
Disproven Theories
- The geocentric model, which placed Earth at the center of the universe, was a theory later disproved by evidence and replaced by the heliocentric model.
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Description
Test your knowledge on scientific theories and learn how they differ from hypotheses. Understand the criteria that a hypothesis must meet to become a widely accepted scientific theory.
