When Is a Theory Wrong? As discussed in this chapter, in

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Problem 17SEQ

When Is a Theory Wrong? As discussed in this chapter, in its original form the nebular theory of solar system formation does not explain the orbits of many known extrasolar planets, but it can explain them with modifications such as allowing for planetary migration. Does this mean the theory was “wrong” or only “incomplete” before the modifications were made? Explain. Be sure to look back at the discussion in Chapter 3 of the nature of science and scientific theories.

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QUESTION:

Problem 17SEQ

When Is a Theory Wrong? As discussed in this chapter, in its original form the nebular theory of solar system formation does not explain the orbits of many known extrasolar planets, but it can explain them with modifications such as allowing for planetary migration. Does this mean the theory was “wrong” or only “incomplete” before the modifications were made? Explain. Be sure to look back at the discussion in Chapter 3 of the nature of science and scientific theories.

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We have to explain when can a theory be wrong or in complete.

A scientific model is said to be most successful when it can explain wide variety of observations with the use of few principles. When this simple and influential model makes predictions which survives repeated and test observations it is called a theory.

 A scientific theory can be proved to be true all the time despite it success in explaining all wide variety of observations because the future observations may disagree with the predictions of the theory. But in spite of all this any model that qualifies as a scientific theory is backed up by lot of compelling evidences.

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