Which of the following best describes a scientific theory?

A scientific theory is best described as a widely accepted explanation based on extensive evidence. This is because a scientific theory is formulated after repeated testing and validation of hypotheses through observation and experimentation. It synthesizes a significant body of knowledge and accounts for a wide range of phenomena. Scientific theories are not mere guesses; they have undergone rigorous peer review and have withstood scrutiny over time. They can evolve as new evidence emerges, but they are grounded in empirical data and are broadly accepted within the scientific community. This deep-rooted basis in evidence and consensus is what distinguishes a scientific theory from other forms of understanding or belief systems that may lack empirical support.