Question17 In science, "theory" meansSelect one alternative: A hypothesis A well-tested, systematic explanation of many facts A statement that is so well-proven it cannot be challenged by any scientific data or scientist A guess, rather than a fact, as indicated by the phrase, "That's theory, not fact." ResetMaximum marks: 1 Flag question undefined

Question

BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

A scientific theory is a well-tested, coherent explanation that unifies a large body of observations and predicts new ones.

1) Relevant knowledge points and concepts
- Hypothesis vs. theory vs. law: A hypothesis is a tentative, testable idea. A theory is a broad, well-supported explanation. A law describes what happens (often mathematically) but does not by itself explain why.  
- Characteristics of a scientific theory: supported by extensive evidence, repeatedly tested, predictive power, explanatory scope, and falsifiability (it can be challenged by new data). Examples: cell theory, evolution by natural selection, germ theory.

2) Step-by-step reasoning
- Examine each option against the scientific definitions.  
  - Option A states “A hypothesis” — a hypothesis is an initial proposed explanation, not the same as a theory. Therefore A is incorrect.  
  - Option B states “A well-tested, systematic explanation of many facts” — this matches the standard definition of a scientific theory: broad, tested, explanatory.  
  - Option C claims a theory “cannot be challenged by any scientific data or scientist” — this contradicts the provisional and testable nature of science; theories can be modified or overturned when new evidence appears. So C is incorrect.  
  - Option D treats theory as merely a “guess” — this is a common colloquial misuse; scientifically, a theory is far stronger than a guess. So D is incorrect.

3) Intermediate logical steps (no numerical calculations)
- Identify that the phrase “well-tested” and “systematic explanation of many facts” are key words matching authoritative definitions.  
- Reject options that reduce theory to hypothesis, absolute truth, or a mere guess.

4) Why the correct answer is correct
- Option B captures that a theory synthesizes multiple lines of evidence into a consistent explanatory framework and has endured testing; it reflects how scientists use the term.

5) Why other options are incorrect (brief)
- A: A hypothesis is preliminary, not the full explanatory framework.  
- C: Science is provisional; no theory is beyond challenge by new evidence.  
- D: Calls a theory a guess—incorrect; theories are rigorously tested.

6) Conclusion
Therefore the correct choice is: "A well-tested, systematic explanation of many facts," which matches the provided answer.

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