Theory

Definition

A 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.

Related terms

Scientific Method:

This is an organized way scientists gather and pursue scientific knowledge. It involves observing phenomena, forming hypotheses based on these observations, testing these hypotheses through experiments, analyzing the data to draw conclusions, and refining or revising the theories based on these conclusions.

Empirical Evidence:

This refers to information received by means of observation or experimentation. These are the "puzzle pieces" in our analogy that help form our theory.

Laws: These are statements which describe observable phenomena but don't explain why those phenomena occur. They're like the box cover for our puzzle - they show us what we should expect to see once all pieces (facts/observations) are put together.