Why is certainty considered impossible in science?

• A. New data can change what we thought we knew
• B. Theories are proven beyond doubt
• C. Experiments always give the same result
• D. Data quality is always perfect

Answer: (B)

In science, nothing is absolutely certain because conclusions are always built from the best available evidence, which can be revised. New data can change what we thought we knew, leading to revised or even overturned ideas as better measurements, methods, or observations come along. The idea that theories are proven beyond doubt isn’t how science works; theories are robust explanations that fit a range of evidence and make predictions, but they remain open to revision if new information appears. Measurements have errors, experiments have limitations, and models are simplified representations of reality, so data quality is never perfect and results can vary with context. This provisional nature is what lets science steadily improve our understanding.