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Definitions

How scientists use the term “theory”
“A general explanation of a characteristic of nature consistently supported by observation or experiment.”

A well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world
WordNet, Princeton University

"In scientific usage, a theory does not mean an unsubstantiated guess or hunch, as it often does in other contexts. A theory is a logically self-consistent model or framework for describing the behavior of a related set of natural or social phenomena. It originates from and/or is supported by experimental evidence (see scientific method). In this sense, a theory is a systematic and formalized expression of all previous observations that is predictive, logical and testable. In principle, scientific theories are always tentative, and subject to corrections or inclusion in a yet wider theory.”
Wikipedia

“Theory” in everyday conversation
“An unproved assumption, conjecture or speculation.”

What's the difference betwween a law and a theory?
Is there a better explanation of "natural" phenomena than a theory?
Chemistry, physics, biology and earth sciences are all considered "natural" sciences. What does the term "natural" mean?

To compare several definitions of any word that interests you -
Type "define" and "the word" in a Google search, i.e. "define plate tectonics". Choose on "Web definitions for Plate Tectonics" to see several different definitions for comparison.



	Definitions Back Home How scientists use the term “theory” “A general explanation of a characteristic of nature consistently supported by observation or experiment.” A well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world WordNet, Princeton University "In scientific usage, a theory does not mean an unsubstantiated guess or hunch, as it often does in other contexts. A theory is a logically self-consistent model or framework for describing the behavior of a related set of natural or social phenomena. It originates from and/or is supported by experimental evidence (see scientific method). In this sense, a theory is a systematic and formalized expression of all previous observations that is predictive, logical and testable. In principle, scientific theories are always tentative, and subject to corrections or inclusion in a yet wider theory.” Wikipedia “Theory” in everyday conversation “An unproved assumption, conjecture or speculation.” Questions for thought What's the difference betwween a law and a theory? Is there a better explanation of "natural" phenomena than a theory? Chemistry, physics, biology and earth sciences are all considered "natural" sciences. What does the term "natural" mean? To try To compare several definitions of any word that interests you - Type "define" and "the word" in a Google search, i.e. "define plate tectonics". Choose on "Web definitions for Plate Tectonics" to see several different definitions for comparison. © 2007-2008 Earthguide at Scripps Institution of Oceanography. All rights reserved.