Module 4: Theories and Laws

Why is the theory of plate tectonics not considered a law?

• It has not been tested enough.

• It does not have enough supporting data.

• It explains a wide range of phenomena.

• It is not universally accepted.

What is the purpose of a theory in science?

• To provide a final answer to a scientific question.

• To explain and predict phenomena.

• To collect data.

• To disprove laws.

Why are theories disproved over time?

• New data and evidence can contradict them.

• They are based on opinions.

• They are not tested.

• They are not important.

What is the difference between a scientific law and a theory?

• Laws are proven, theories are not.

• Laws describe phenomena, theories explain them.

• Theories are more important than laws.

• Laws are based on opinions, theories are based on facts.

What is the law of conservation of mass?

• Mass can be created and destroyed.

• Mass remains constant in a closed system.

• Mass can change forms.

• Mass is irrelevant in chemical reactions.

What is the main difference between scientific laws and theories?

• Laws describe phenomena, while theories explain why those phenomena happen.

• Theories describe phenomena, while laws explain why those phenomena happen.

• Laws and theories both describe phenomena.

• Theories and laws both explain why phenomena happen.

Who is credited with being the first to describe the idea of the molecular theory of matter?

• Aristotle

• Plato

• Anaxagoras

• Pythagoras

What did ancient Babylonian tablets (20–16th century BCE) try to explain?

• The movement of the planets

• The structure of atoms

• The laws of motion

• The theory of relativity

What term describes a person who studies all the truths related to knowledge?

• Scientist

• Philosopher

• Theorist

• Mathematician

What is a theory in scientific terms?

• A) A random guess about phenomena

• B) An explanation of why phenomena happen based on collected data and observations

• C) A law that describes natural phenomena

• D) A hypothesis that has not been tested