Chapter 13, Problem 49A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The statement that scientific theories are an explanation of an aspect of the natural world needs to be justified.

Concept Introduction: - For a successful scientific theory, small input parameters and large observational successes which are verified at each and every step are considered. All theories are successful, they may change or the way that they are interpreted may change, but the fact themselves do not change

Answer to Problem 49A

Scientific theory is an explanation of a fact. It can be updated or rejected. New theories come in existence which fulfills the demands.

Explanation of Solution

A scientific theory is defined as an elaboration of an aspect which is investigated and proved according to the scientific method by applying observations, measurements and checking the outcomes.

Theories can be modified and finally rejected if it cannot fit into the new findings, in such cases a new theory is needed which is more accurate.

It is not necessary that if a theory is successful in the past it is necessarily successful in the future.

Continue research and observation are done on each and every aspect of a theory and modifications are done and a new theory will be formed to explain better.

Conclusion

A scientific theory is an explanation of an aspect of the natural world.

Theories can be modified and rejected.

New theories and observation came into existence according to the need and requirement.