Accepted theories may be modified or overturned as new evidence and perspective emerges. Scientists are likely to accept a new or modified theory if it explains everything the old theory did and more.

Can a theory be revised or replaced?

A theory can change over time. ... A useful theory that has been tested and supported may become a dominant view among the majority of scientists. However, science is always changing. As new evidence is uncovered, a theory may be revised or replaced by a more useful explanation.

Can theories be revised over time?

The evolution of a scientific theory

A scientific theory is not the end result of the scientific method; theories can be proven or rejected, just like hypotheses. Theories can be improved or modified as more information is gathered so that the accuracy of the prediction becomes greater over time.