Why do scientists refer to Charles Darwin’s ideas about evolution as the 'theory of evolution'?

• A. Because it is merely a guess with little scientific support.
• B. Because it only applies to animals and not to plants or microorganisms.
• C. Because it has been proven to be a law of nature.
• D. Because it is a well-supported explanation based on extensive evidence and observations.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the term 'theory' in scientific context. In science, a theory is not a mere guess or hypothesis; it is a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world that is based on a body of evidence and has stood up to repeated testing and scrutiny.
2. Step 2: Recognize that Charles Darwin’s ideas about evolution, as presented in his work 'On the Origin of Species,' are supported by extensive evidence, including fossil records, comparative anatomy, embryology, and molecular biology.
3. Step 3: Note that the 'theory of evolution' explains the mechanism of natural selection, which describes how traits that enhance survival and reproduction become more common in a population over generations.
4. Step 4: Understand that scientific theories are dynamic and can be refined as new evidence emerges, but Darwin’s theory remains a cornerstone of biology due to its robust support from multiple lines of evidence.
5. Step 5: Conclude that scientists refer to Darwin’s ideas as the 'theory of evolution' because it is a comprehensive and well-supported explanation, not because it is a guess or limited in scope.