A theory is a set of related hypotheses that have been tested and confirmed many times by many scientists. Which of the following could cause a long-held theory to be challenged or even overturned by the scientific community? (SC.912.N.1.1)

Question

*
1 point
new evidence that better matches the new theory than previous evidence
a popular celebrity who disagrees with the ideas outlined in the old theory
a scientist who has strong beliefs that the old theory is wrong but little evidence
a group of scientists who believe that new theories are usually better than old theories

Answer 1

The option that could cause a long-held theory to be challenged or even overturned by the scientific community is:

new evidence that better matches the new theory than previous evidence.

This is because scientific theories are based on evidence and can be revised or replaced when new, compelling evidence is presented that better explains the observations. The other options do not rely on scientific evidence and thus are not valid reasons for challenging or overturning a scientific theory.