Question

Which of the following is an explanation or model that is supported by many experiments and observations? A. hypothesis C. theory B. law D. estimate

Short answer

The correct answer is C. Theory.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Terms

First, let's understand each option: A hypothesis is an idea or explanation that you then test through study and experimentation. A theory is a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world, based on a body of facts that have been repeatedly confirmed through observation and experimentation. A law is a statement based on repeated experimental observations that describes some aspect of the world. An estimate is an approximation or judgment based on available data.

Identifying the Supported Explanation or Model

The question asks for an explanation or model supported by many experiments and observations. A hypothesis becomes a theory once it is well-supported by evidence. Laws describe phenomena but do not explain them. Estimates are guesses. Therefore, among the options, a theory is a model that is supported by many experiments and observations.

Choosing the Correct Option

Based on the definitions and understanding, the correct option is C. A theory is supported by a substantial amount of evidence from numerous experiments and observations, providing a comprehensive explanation.

Key concepts

Hypothesis

A hypothesis is like an educated guess about how something works. It’s an important starting point in the scientific process. A scientist comes up with a hypothesis by observing the world and identifying questions or problems that haven't been answered yet. The hypothesis is a statement that proposes a potential explanation or relationship that can be tested.

• It's based on prior knowledge and observation.
• It should be testable and falsifiable. This means you should be able to prove if it is true or false through experiments.

A hypothesis isn’t just a wild guess. It’s formulated after careful observation and thought. Once formulated, it leads scientists to perform experiments to see if their hypothesis stands up to scrutiny.

Scientific Law

A scientific law is a statement that describes what happens under certain conditions in the natural world, based on repeated experimentation or observation. These laws are usually considered fact because they have been consistently validated. However, it's important to note that scientific laws do not explain why phenomena occur.

• Laws describe observed phenomena. For example, Newton's Law of Gravity describes how objects are attracted to one another due to gravity.
• They are often expressed in mathematical form, making them easy to apply to real-world problems.
• Though laws do not explain why something happens, they are critical for predicting the behavior of the natural world.

While laws describe the "what," they do not address the "why," which is typically where theories come into play.

Experimentation

Experimentation is a method by which scientists test hypotheses. It involves manipulating variables to determine cause-and-effect relationships. Experiments are designed to be controlled and reproducible, ensuring that their results are reliable.

• Experiments should have a clear method and objective, focusing on testing the hypothesis.
• Control groups are necessary to provide standard conditions for comparison against experimental conditions.
• Reproducibility is key. Other scientists should be able to repeat the experiment and obtain the same results.

Successfully conducted experiments produce data that can support or refute a hypothesis, progressively building towards more comprehensive scientific knowledge.

Observation

Observation in science is the process of collecting information about the natural world through the senses or the use of scientific tools. It is the backbone of scientific inquiry and serves as the starting point for forming hypotheses.

• Observations should be detailed and accurate to provide quality data for experimentation.
• They can be qualitative (descriptive data) or quantitative (numerical data).
• Consistency in observations is crucial, ensuring that the recorded data accurately reflects reality.

Through observation, scientists gather evidence that helps to develop hypotheses and theories, leading to greater understanding of the laws that govern the universe.