What is the scientific definition of the word theory?

A theory is a carefully thought-out explanation for observations of the natural world that has been constructed using the scientific method, and which brings together many facts and hypotheses. A scientist makes an observation of a natural phenomenon.

What is a scientific theory answer?

A scientific theory is a broad explanation for events that is widely accepted as true. To become a theory, a hypothesis must be tested over and over again, and it must be supported by a great deal of evidence.

Which of the following is the best definition of a theory?

1 : a plausible or scientifically acceptable general principle or body of principles offered to explain phenomena the wave theory of light. 2a : a belief, policy, or procedure proposed or followed as the basis of action her method is based on the theory that all children want to learn.

Which best describes a scientific theory?

A scientific theory is a well-tested, broad explanation of a natural phenomenon. In everyday life, we often use the word theory to mean a hypothesis or educated guess, but a theory in the context of science is not simply a guess—it is an explanation based on extensive and repeated experimentation.

How does popular use of the word theory differ from use of the word theory in science?

In everyday use, the word “theory” often means an untested hunch, or a guess without supporting evidence. But for scientists, a theory has nearly the opposite meaning. Scientific theories are testable. New evidence should be compatible with a theory.

How does a scientific theory differ from scientific hypothesis quizlet?

Theories are proposed to test scientific hypotheses. Theories are usually an explanation for a more general phenomenon; hypotheses typically address more specific issues. Theories are usually an explanation for a more general phenomenon; hypotheses typically address more specific issues.

What does the term theory mean to scientist quizlet?

In science, the word theory refers to a comprehensive explanation of an important feature of nature supported by facts gathered over time. The explanation of a phenomenon is called a scientific theory.

What best describes a scientific theory?

A scientific theory could best be described as an idea that explains a large collection of observations of the natural world. A defining feature of pseudoscience is it doesn’t use proper scientific methodology. Today, the idea that everything is made of atoms should be classified as a theory.

A scientific theory is a suggested description that explains. the cause or nature of things that have been observed. The theory usually also predicts things that have not been. observed yet. Then, experiments are set up to test the predictions.

What is required for a theory to be scientific?

be empirically testable or lead to testable predictions or retrodictions (use present information or ideas to infer or explain a past event or state of affairs)

What are the characteristics of a good scientific theory?

Three characteristics of a good scientific theory: testable, repeatable and stable. Must make predictions; must be falsifiable. Testability, even more than falsifiability , is probably the most fundamental aspect of science, separating it from theology, maths and philosophy.