Scientific Theories Vs. Scientific Laws

Which of the following best defines a scientific theory?

• A statement that describes an observed pattern in nature

• A mathematical equation that predicts future observations

• A well-substantiated explanation of a natural phenomenon

• A rule that cannot be changed

Which of the following is an example of a scientific law?

• Theory of Evolution

• Law of Conservation of Energy

• Big Bang Theory

• Cell Theory

How does a scientific law differ from a scientific theory?

• A law explains why something happens, while a theory describes what happens.

• A law describes what happens, while a theory explains why it happens.

• A law is an opinion, while a theory is a fact.

• A theory becomes a law after being proven.

Which of the following is NOT a scientific theory?

• Theory of Plate Tectonics

• Atomic Theory

• Newton’s Laws of Motion

• Theory of Relativity

What makes a scientific theory valid?

• It is never questioned by scientists.

• It is based on repeated experimentation and evidence.

• It has been voted on by the scientific community.

• It has been proven correct once.

Which statement about scientific theories and laws is true?

• Theories eventually become laws when enough evidence supports them.

• Laws explain why natural events occur.

• Theories and laws serve different purposes in science.

• Laws are just more accurate theories.

Boyle’s Law states that the volume of a gas is inversely proportional to its pressure. What does this statement represent?

• A scientific theory

• A scientific law

• A scientific hypothesis

• A scientific conclusion

Why is the Big Bang Theory considered a theory and not a law?

• Because it has not been tested

• Because it only describes what happened

• Because it provides an explanation for the origin of the universe

• Because it is a fact, not a scientific statement