Final answer:
Theories in science are detailed explanations of important natural phenomena supported by substantial evidence, allowing for the generation of testable hypotheses and predictions. A good theory is one that withstands rigorous testing and evidence, forming the bedrock of scientific understanding.
Step-by-step explanation:
Purposes of Theories in Science
Theories in science serve multiple purposes: they are comprehensive explanations of important features of nature supported by a vast array of facts. Theories help generate testable hypotheses, facilitate predictions about as yet unobserved phenomena, and are used to guide further research and experimentation. The National Academy of Sciences defines a theory as a well-established scientific explanation unlikely to be altered by new evidence. It's more than a hunch or speculation; it's a substantial explanation of a part of the natural world backed by significant evidence collected over time.
What Makes a Good Theory?
A "good theory" in science is one that consistently produces accurate predictions and can be tested and falsified. It must stand up to rigorous testing and must be supported by a great deal of evidence. The bedrock of our understanding of nature refers to how theories underpin our knowledge of how the universe operates and are extensively confirmed by scientific evidence.