Astronomy Practice Exam

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How does science view accepted ideas?

As unchangeable facts
As absolute truths
As subjects of constant testing and potential change
As theories that are rarely questioned

The correct answer is: As subjects of constant testing and potential change

Science views accepted ideas as subjects of constant testing and potential change because the scientific method is fundamentally based on skepticism and the pursuit of knowledge through empirical evidence. Accepted ideas, or scientific theories, are continually subjected to experimentation, observation, and scrutiny. When new evidence emerges or when existing theories are tested under different conditions, scientists reassess these ideas. This process allows science to adapt and refine its understanding of the natural world. As such, no scientific principle is ever considered entirely inviolable; rather, they are viewed as the best explanations based on current evidence, and they are always open to revision or rejection if new data suggests otherwise. This dynamic nature of science is crucial for progress, fostering innovation and deeper understanding. The concept of change in scientific views underscores that scientific knowledge is provisional and evolves as more information becomes available, leading to more accurate and comprehensive explanations of phenomena.