The characteristics of a reliable scientific explanation can be seen in the development of the atomic theory.
The development of a scientific idea must always follow the scientific method. The scientific method involves the proposition of a hypothesis, experimentation and confirmation or disapproval of the initial hypothesis.
There was the deep involvement of the scientific method in the development of the atomic theory since their was experimentation at certain points to confirm or disprove the propositions. As we can see, Dalton's initial ideas were laid aside as stronger empirical evidences emerged.
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