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Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes how Francis would know that a hypothesis has become a scientific theory in the context of natural selection and evolution?
A
The hypothesis is accepted by a single scientist as being true.
B
The hypothesis has never been tested but is widely believed by the public.
C
The hypothesis has been repeatedly tested and supported by a wide range of evidence from multiple independent studies.
D
The hypothesis is proven correct by one experiment.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the difference between a hypothesis and a scientific theory: A hypothesis is a testable explanation for a phenomenon, while a scientific theory is a well-substantiated explanation based on a large body of evidence.
Recognize that for a hypothesis to become a scientific theory, it must be repeatedly tested and supported by evidence from multiple independent studies. This ensures reliability and validity.
Eliminate incorrect options: A hypothesis accepted by a single scientist or proven correct by one experiment does not meet the criteria for becoming a scientific theory. Similarly, a hypothesis widely believed by the public but never tested is not scientifically valid.
Focus on the correct criteria: A scientific theory emerges when a hypothesis is rigorously tested, supported by diverse evidence, and accepted by the scientific community.
Apply this understanding to the context of natural selection and evolution: The theory of evolution by natural selection is supported by extensive evidence from fields such as genetics, paleontology, and comparative anatomy, demonstrating how hypotheses evolve into scientific theories.