Question

Scientific theories are a. a set of related assumptions that guide and explain observations and allow testable predictions to be made. b. educated guesses. c. hunches. d. hypotheses.

Short answer

The best answer is a: A set of related assumptions that guide and explain observations and allow testable predictions to be made.

Step-by-step solution

Define Key Terms

To solve this question, we start by defining the key terms: Scientific theories, assumptions, and predictions. Scientific theories are comprehensive explanations based on a substantial body of evidence, assumptions are the underlying beliefs that guide these theories, and predictions are testable outcomes that these theories suggest.

Analyze Each Option

Go through each of the options to understand their meanings: - a) Scientific theories as a set of assumptions allowing predictions suggests a formal structure. - b) Educated guesses imply less formality and less systematic evidence. - c) Hunches suggest intuitive understanding rather than systematic evidence. - d) Hypotheses refer to specific testable predictions, often a component of theories but less comprehensive.

Match Definitions to Options

Match the definitions from Step 1 with the options in Step 2: - Option a (related assumptions and testable predictions) closely matches the definition of scientific theories. - Options b (educated guesses), c (hunches), and d (hypotheses) do not encompass the comprehensive and evidence-based nature of theories.

Conclusion

Based on the analysis, the most accurate description of scientific theories aligns with option a: A set of related assumptions that guide and explain observations and allow testable predictions to be made.

Key concepts

Related assumptions

In the context of scientific theories, related assumptions are the foundational beliefs or ideas that form the basis of a theory. These assumptions are not just random ideas; they are systematically chosen based on existing knowledge and evidence. Here’s why they matter: * **Foundation:** Without assumptions, a scientific theory cannot have a stable base to build upon. * **Framework:** These assumptions help in setting a clear framework for understanding and evaluating phenomena. * **Guidance:** They guide researchers in their study, helping to direct the scope and focus of their work. Related assumptions enable researchers to have a shared understanding and starting point for inquiry. For example, the assumption that gravity acts between all masses in the universe is a fundamental part of physics theories that explain numerous phenomena.

Testable predictions

Testable predictions are a key feature of scientific theories. They are specific outcomes that can be measured or observed if the theory is correct. The ability to make testable predictions is what allows scientists to verify or falsify a theory. This is essential because: * **Verification:** It allows for the theory to be rigorously tested and confirmed through experiments or observations. * **Advancement:** Through testing these predictions, science can advance by refining or discarding theories as new evidence comes to light. * **Reproducibility:** Predictions that can be tested should also be reproducible by other researchers, ensuring that results are not due to chance or specific circumstances. An example of a testable prediction is predicting the path of a planet in the solar system. If observations match the predicted path, it supports the theory involved. If not, the theory may need to be revised.

Hypotheses

Hypotheses are closely connected to scientific theories but are not the same. A hypothesis is a specific, testable statement or question arising from a theory. While theories provide a broader explanation, hypotheses focus on narrow aspects which can be directly tested. * **Specificity:** Hypotheses are more specific than theories, zeroing in on particular phenomena. * **Testability:** Like predictions, hypotheses must be testable through experiments or observations. * **Connection:** A single theory can lead to multiple hypotheses, each addressing different predictions or elements of the theory. For instance, if a theory suggests that plant growth is influenced by sunlight, a hypothesis might specifically test if increasing sunlight by two hours a day affects plant height after one month. Then, experiments can be conducted to confirm or refute the hypothesis.