There can be more than one explanation for any phenomena.

There can be more than one explanation for any phenomena.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Sometimes
• D. Not sure

Answer: (A)

When scientists study a phenomenon, there can be more than one plausible explanation that fits the evidence. Observations can often be produced by different processes, especially when data are limited or when multiple mechanisms could work together. Researchers test predictions unique to each possible explanation, and as new data come in, one explanation may become more strongly supported—or it may reveal that several contributions are involved. A simple Earth-science example is a valley that could be shaped mainly by river erosion, glacier activity, or a combination of both; different lines of evidence can support each possibility until more information pins down the dominant process. Because multiple explanations can account for the same observation, the statement is true.

When scientists study a phenomenon, there can be more than one plausible explanation that fits the evidence. Observations can often be produced by different processes, especially when data are limited or when multiple mechanisms could work together. Researchers test predictions unique to each possible explanation, and as new data come in, one explanation may become more strongly supported—or it may reveal that several contributions are involved. A simple Earth-science example is a valley that could be shaped mainly by river erosion, glacier activity, or a combination of both; different lines of evidence can support each possibility until more information pins down the dominant process. Because multiple explanations can account for the same observation, the statement is true.