Which statement is true?(1 point)
As evidence changes, scientific theories can also change.
If a single study or inference is wrong, a scientific theory can be invalidated.
Scientific theories describe natural phenomena, whereas scientific laws explain natural phenomena.
Scientific theories only involve finding evidence to explain phenomena.
Anything wrong with with #1?
The statement that is true is: "As evidence changes, scientific theories can also change."
To determine the answer, let's analyze each statement:
1. "As evidence changes, scientific theories can also change." - This statement is true. Scientific theories are based on evidence and are subject to change as new evidence is discovered. As scientists gather more information and evidence, they may revise or modify existing theories to better explain and align with the new evidence.
2. "If a single study or inference is wrong, a scientific theory can be invalidated." - This statement is partially true. While a single study or inference alone may not be enough to invalidate an entire scientific theory, it can certainly prompt scientists to reexamine and reassess the theory. Scientific theories are built upon a body of evidence and multiple studies, so if a significant amount of evidence contradicts the theory, it may be questioned or rejected.
3. "Scientific theories describe natural phenomena, whereas scientific laws explain natural phenomena." - This statement is true. Scientific theories explain why and how something happens, providing a broad framework to understand natural phenomena. On the other hand, scientific laws describe what happens under certain conditions and are often expressed mathematically. Laws describe precise relationships or patterns observed in nature but provide limited explanation as to why those relationships exist.
4. "Scientific theories only involve finding evidence to explain phenomena." - This statement is false. While gathering evidence is an essential part of developing scientific theories, it is not the sole focus. Scientific theories also involve developing conceptual frameworks, formulating hypotheses, conducting experiments, making observations, and analyzing data. The evidence is used to support and refine the theory, but its development requires intellectual and theoretical efforts as well.
Therefore, the correct answer is the first statement: "As evidence changes, scientific theories can also change."