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Chapter 1: Problem 6

Describe the necessary characteristics of a scientific theory.

Short Answer

Expert verified
A scientific theory needs to be testable, based on empirical evidence, have predictive power, be revisable, and be coherent with existing scientific knowledge.

Step by step solution

01

Definition of Scientific Theory

A scientific theory is a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world that is acquired through the scientific method and repeatedly tested and confirmed, preferably using a written, pre-defined, protocol of observations and experiments. This definition sets the basis for understanding the necessary characteristics.
02

Characteristics of a Scientific Theory - Testability

An essential characteristic is that a theory must be testable. It should be possible to make observations or carry out experiments that could prove the theory wrong. The theory of gravity, for example, could potentially be disproved if an object were found to rise when dropped instead of falling to the ground.
03

Characteristics of a Scientific Theory - Empirical Evidence

A scientific theory must be based on empirical evidence, or data gathered from observation or experiment. This data must be reproducible and transparent. There shouldn't be any part of the theory that relies on faith or opinions.
04

Characteristics of a Scientific Theory - Predictive

A theory should have predictive power. If a theory is correct, it should be possible to use it to make predictions about the natural world. These predictions should then be testable. For instance, Einstein's Theory of General Relativity predicted black holes and gravitational waves, predictions that are now regularly confirmed.
05

Characteristics of a Scientific Theory - Revisable

A good theory is also revisable. As new evidence comes to light, a theory should be able to be reviewed and updated as necessary.
06

Characteristics of a Scientific Theory - Coherence

Coherence to existing scientific knowledge matters. A theory needs to be coherent with what is already known within the scientific community. It should not contradict other theories accepted as accurate unless it provides substantial evidence to challenge them.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Express the result of each of the following calculations in exponential form and with the appropriate number of significant figures. (a) \(\left(4.65 \times 10^{4}\right) \times\left(2.95 \times 10^{-2}\right) \times\left(6.663 \times 10^{-3}\right) \times 8.2=\) (b) \(\frac{1912 \times\left(0.0077 \times 10^{4}\right) \times\left(3.12 \times 10^{-3}\right)}{\left(4.18 \times 10^{-4}\right)^{3}}=\) {c} \(\left(3.46 \times 10^{3}\right) \times 0.087 \times 15.26 \times 1.0023=\) (d) \(\frac{\left(4.505 \times 10^{-2}\right)^{2} \times 1.080 \times 1545.9}{0.03203 \times 10^{3}}=\) (e) \(\frac{\left(-3.61 \times 10^{-4}\right)+\sqrt{\left(3.61 \times 10^{-4}\right)^{2}+4(1.00)\left(1.9 \times 10^{-5}\right)}}{2 \times(1.00)}\) [Hint: The significant figure rule for the extraction of a root is the same as for multiplication.]

To determine the volume of an irregularly shaped glass vessel, the vessel is weighed empty \((121.3 \mathrm{g})\) and when filled with carbon tetrachloride (283.2 g). What is the volume capacity of the vessel, in milliliters, given that the density of carbon tetrachloride is \(1.59 \mathrm{g} / \mathrm{mL} ?\)

In an engineering reference book, you find that the density of iron is \(0.284 \mathrm{lb} / \mathrm{in.}^{3} .\) What is the density in \(\mathrm{g} / \mathrm{cm}^{3} ?\)

You decide to establish a new temperature scale on which the melting point of ammonia \(\left(-77.75^{\circ} \mathrm{C}\right)\) is \(0^{\circ}\) A and the boiling point of ammonia \(\left(-33.35^{\circ} \mathrm{C}\right)\) is \(100^{\circ}\) A. What would be (a) the boiling point of water in \(^{\circ}$$\text{A}\); and (b) the temperature of absolute zero in \(^{\circ}$$\text{A}\)?

A Boeing 767 due to fly from Montreal to Edmonton required refueling. Because the fuel gauge on the aircraft was not working, a mechanic used a dipstick to determine that 7682 L of fuel were left on the plane. The plane required \(22,300 \mathrm{kg}\) of fuel to make the trip. In order to determine the volume of fuel required, the pilot asked for the conversion factor needed to convert a volume of fuel to a mass of fuel. The mechanic gave the factor as \(1.77 .\) Assuming that this factor was in metric units (kg/L), the pilot calculated the volume to be added as 4916 L. This volume of fuel was added and the 767 subsequently ran out the fuel, but landed safely by gliding into Gimli Airport near Winnipeg. The error arose because the factor 1.77 was in units of pounds per liter. What volume of fuel should have been added?
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