What defines theories in a scientific context?

Theories in a scientific context are defined by their basis in interpreting data. Scientific theories emerge after systematic observations, experiments, and empirical evidence are gathered and analyzed. Through this process, scientists formulate explanations that account for the observations made in the natural world. These theories are built on data, allowing them to provide a framework for understanding phenomena, making predictions, and guiding further research.

While theories can evolve and adapt in light of new evidence—an acknowledgement of their tentative nature—it is the initial accumulation and interpretation of data that gives rise to a theory. This distinguishes scientific theories from personal beliefs or rigid interpretations that lack empirical support. Theories are dynamic and can change as new data is discovered or existing data is reinterpreted, but the foundation of a scientific theory remains rooted in the interpretation of data.