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An idea is simply a notion, a thought, an explanation that pops into the head. Ideas can be good or bad. In the realm of science, an idea (hopefully good and hopefully logical) is called an hypothesis. Hypotheses are possible explanations for phenomena that need to be tested with experiments (or the gathering of more evidence and data) and need to be 'fitted' with the rest of science fact and theory to see if such a new entry into science makes science a more coherent whole. A hypothesis that is not contradicted by evidence, meets the predictions of an experiment and is useful as a predictor and explainer is promoted to a theory. Darwin's idea of evolution has become a theory by the gathering of fossils and the comparing of anatomy and genomes of many species. Darwin was probably one of the few capable of single-handedly promoting an idea to a theory, given the mountains of evidence he collected. Copernicus' idea of heliocentrism has been confirmed and is now the theory of the structure of the solar system. Rutherford's idea of the structure of atoms has been confirmed and is certainly a theory now - certainly modern atomic sciences would not have advanced this far without it. The Watson-Crick idea of the structure of DNA is a theory these days and was made so by the very experiments of Watson and Crick and Franklin.

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Kathryn Lebsack

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1w ago

A theory is a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world that is based on a body of evidence and has been tested and confirmed through observation and experimentation. An idea is a concept or notion formed in the mind that can range from a simple thought to a more complex proposal, but may not have the same level of evidence or testing to support it as a theory. In summary, a theory is a rigorously tested explanation, while an idea is a suggestion or concept that may not yet have the same level of empirical support.

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Q: What is the difference between a theory and a idea?
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What is the difference between a theory and data?

A theory is a well-supported explanation for phenomena based on observation, experimentation, and analysis. Data refers to the facts, figures, or information collected from experiments, surveys, or observations, which are used to support or refute a theory. In summary, a theory is an overarching explanation, while data are the specific observations that inform and test that theory.


What is the difference between in Normative theory and historical cost theory?

Normative theory focuses on what should be done based on ethical, moral, or societal principles, while historical cost theory values assets at their original purchase price. Normative theory considers broader implications and ethical considerations, while historical cost theory is more concerned with financial accuracy and reliability.


What kind of noun is the word theory?

The word "theory" is a singular, common, abstract noun.


What are the difference between relevance and irrelevance theory of dividend?

The relevance theory of dividends suggests that dividends impact a firm's value, investor preferences, and information signaling. In contrast, the irrelevance theory of dividends proposes that dividend policy does not affect a firm's value because investors are indifferent between dividends and capital gains.


What is the difference between pluralism and unitarism?

Pluralism is a theory that acknowledges and supports diversity in society by allowing for multiple sources of authority and power. Unitarism, on the other hand, promotes the idea of a single, unified source of authority and power within a society, often favoring centralized decision-making and control.

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What is the difference between a theory and data?

A theory is a well-supported explanation for phenomena based on observation, experimentation, and analysis. Data refers to the facts, figures, or information collected from experiments, surveys, or observations, which are used to support or refute a theory. In summary, a theory is an overarching explanation, while data are the specific observations that inform and test that theory.


What are the difference between a theory and a scientific theory?

law is based on fact theory is a concept/idea


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The difference between dividend irrelevance theory and dividend relevance theory?

what are the difference between relevance and irrelevance theories of dividends


What is the difference between theory and hypothesi?

Hypothesis is a guess a theory is an answer


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Its generally accepted that there is. Hypothesis being an educated guess to be proven through experimentation and theory is a generally accepted idea that has been tested and not discredited but may be later on.


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