Which of the following is a theory?A) an educated guess. B) a very specific prediction. C) observations made during the voyage of the Beagle. D)...

The correct answer is D - a theory is a broad explanation
that has been scientifically tested and supported. Possible answer A could be a
definition for a hypothesis. Possible answer B does not allow the wide scope of
information that can be included in a theory, and possible answer C does not address the
explanatory function served by a theory. A theory may serve as the starting point for
observations as well as providing a foundation for experimentation and drawing
conclusions. The nature of much of scientific research, however, is such that absolutely
final and irrefutable conclusions are often not possible. Rather than being able to
state that "this is an irrefutable fact for all time," scientists more often conclude
"the evidence available to this point supports this theory" - pending revision if
necessary based on new evidence.