Here's the breakdown:
* Scientific theory: A well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world that can incorporate facts, laws, inferences, and tested hypotheses. It's supported by a large body of evidence and has been repeatedly tested and confirmed through observation and experimentation.
Here's what a scientific theory is not:
* A guess or an opinion: Scientific theories are not based on speculation or personal beliefs.
* A hypothesis: A hypothesis is a proposed explanation for a phenomenon, while a theory is a well-established explanation supported by evidence.
* A fact: Facts are observations, while a theory explains those observations.
Examples of scientific theories:
* Theory of Gravity: Explains the force of attraction between objects with mass.
* Theory of Evolution: Explains the diversity of life on Earth through the process of natural selection.
* Theory of Plate Tectonics: Explains the movement of Earth's crust and the formation of mountains and continents.
Think of a scientific theory like a sturdy house built on a strong foundation of evidence. It's not just a shaky structure that could fall apart at any moment. It's a reliable and well-supported explanation for a phenomenon.
In summary, when scientists use the word "theory", they are referring to a robust explanation of natural phenomena, backed by a substantial body of evidence and rigorous testing.