Which statement best describes a scientific theory?(1 point)

Question

Responses

A. Eva explained that two brown-haired parents had a child with red hair due to dominant and recessive genes.
B. Jose explained that all planets orbit around the sun in an elliptical path.
I think A is better as in a theory you explain how dominant and recessive genes ended up giving a child their red hair... Option B has to do with Kepler's LAW.... What do you think? 

Answer 1

Your reasoning makes sense in the context of how theories and laws are defined in science. However, it's important to consider that both statements relate to scientific concepts.

A scientific theory is typically a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world that is based on a body of evidence and can be tested and modified as new evidence emerges. In this context:

• Statement A refers to the explanation of how dominant and recessive genes work in inheritance, which is indeed a concept tied to genetic theory.
• Statement B, on the other hand, references the elliptical orbits of planets, which is derived from Kepler's laws of planetary motion, a foundational principle in astronomy.

While you are correct that Statement A involves an explanatory aspect that fits with the nature of a scientific theory, it's worth noting that both statements discuss scientific principles. However, A tends to align more closely with the idea of a theory because it explains the underlying mechanism of genetic inheritance.

So, if we are specifically looking for a detailed explanation of a phenomenon, A is indeed a better fit for describing a scientific theory.

Answer 2

I ask this because you informed the following: (so you are confusing me with your answers)

The statement that best describes a scientific theory is:
**Jose explained that all planets orbit around the sun in an elliptical path.**

This statement reflects a well-substantiated explanation of a natural phenomenon that is supported by a body of evidence and has been tested through various observations and experiments (specifically referencing Kepler's laws of planetary motion). A scientific theory is a broad explanation that is widely accepted in the scientific community.

Answer 3

I apologize for any confusion my previous response may have caused. Let's clarify the definitions and context for both statements.

A scientific theory is indeed a comprehensive explanation of an observed phenomenon that is supported by a significant body of evidence. It is broader than a hypothesis and can encompass various laws, principles, and explanations related to a specific area of science.

• Statement A explains the inheritance of traits through dominant and recessive genes, which is tied to the theory of heredity and genetics. It offers a mechanism that explains how traits are passed from parents to offspring, which aligns well with the definition of a scientific theory.

• Statement B states that all planets orbit the sun in an elliptical path, which is based on Kepler's laws of planetary motion. This statement reflects a well-established principle in astronomy that is highly supported by evidence.

In summary:

• If you are evaluating based on the need for an explanatory framework, Statement A is indeed a better representation of a scientific theory because it explains genetic inheritance.
• Statement B, while a well-supported principle, can be seen more as a law of nature rather than a theory, as it describes a specific observation rather than providing a broader mechanism of explanation.

Based on the aim of your question, you were correct in choosing Statement A as a better representation of a scientific theory due to its explanatory nature in genetic inheritance. Thank you for your patience, and I appreciate your seeking clarification!