The scientific meaning of the term "theory" is: a. essentially the same as a hypothesis. b. valid only if the theory can be proven. c. grounded in data from prior research. d. "just an idea" even if there are numerous hypotheses that support it.

C. grounded in data from prior research.

Explanation:

A theory is the explanation for the cause of a natural process occurred in the history of earth or the entire universe. The content of the theory is supported by the facts and evidences obtain by the experimental processes. The content of the theory can change with further research conducted on the similar grounds.

The data conducted in the previous research can match with the present study.  

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