CK-12 1.4 Scientific Theory

They are untested guesses

They are proven facts that never change

They help explain and predict natural phenomena based on evidence

They are opinions of scientists

Broad explanation of natural events

Supported by a large body of evidence

Explains many observations and connects phenomena

Based on a single observation

All substances are made of tiny atoms

Atoms of one element are identical

Atoms of different elements are different

Atoms cannot combine to form compounds

Theory of Evolution

Einstein's Theory of Gravity

Theory of Relativity

Wave–Particle Theory of Light

Occam's Razor

Newton's Law

Theory of Relativity

Heisenberg Principle

More assumptions mean more chances for error.

Simple and evidence-based explanations are more reliable.

Complex theories are always better.

Parsimony leads to more reliable results.

In science, a theory is a well-supported explanation; in everyday use, it often means a guess.

In science, a theory is just a guess; in everyday use, it is a proven fact.

In science, a theory is an opinion; in everyday use, it is a law.

In science, a theory is a law; in everyday use, it is a hypothesis.