As discussed in this chapter, in its original form the nebular theory of solar system formation does not explain the orbits of many known extrasolar planets, but it can explain them with modifications such as allowing for planetary migration. Does this mean the theory was "wrong" or only "incomplete" before the modifications were made? Explain. Be sure to look back at the discussion in Chapter 3 of the nature of science and scientific theories.
As discussed in this chapter, in its original form the nebular theory of solar system formation does not explain the orbits of many known extrasolar planets, but it can explain them with modifications such as allowing for planetary migration. Does this mean the theory was "wrong" or only "incomplete" before the modifications were made? Explain. Be sure to look back at the discussion in Chapter 3 of the nature of science and scientific theories.
A scientific theory was put forth to explain how our own solar system formed: the nebular theory of solar system formation. It is open to review and modification when new data and observations come to light, just like any other scientific hypothesis.
Initially, the nebular theory was predicated on the idea that planets formed in a circular orbit in the same plane as the protoplanetary disc around a young star. However, this premise was called into question by the finding of multiple extrasolar planets with very elliptical and/or inclined orbits, which necessitated revisions to the original hypothesis, including the notion of planetary migration.
The nebular idea needed to be adjusted, but that does not mean it was incorrect in the sense that it was entirely erroneous or invalid. Instead, it fell short of fully explaining all of the observations made at the time. The theory was altered while remaining consistent with the facts, allowing it to explain the observed extrasolar planet features.
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