Scientific Theories and Laws Overview

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

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

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

• A law is a proven theory, while a theory is an unproven law.

• A law is always true, while a theory is always false.

What is the main function of a scientific law?

• To provide the most logical explanation for phenomena.

• To predict the results of certain initial conditions.

• To explain the underlying mechanisms of natural events.

• To prove a hypothesis beyond any doubt.

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What is the main function of a scientific theory?

• To predict future observations based on current data.

• To describe a consistent pattern in nature.

• To provide the most logical explanation for why things happen.

• To establish a universally accepted truth.

How do scientific laws and theories relate to each other?

• A theory can eventually become a law once it is proven.

• Laws and theories have different functions and do not evolve into one another.

• Laws are superior to theories in scientific hierarchy.

• Theories are merely educated guesses, while laws are facts.

What did Johannes Kepler develop based on decades of astronomical data?

• A theory of cosmic musical harmonies.

• Three brilliant laws of planetary motion.

• A universal instruction manual for the cosmos.

• A new theory of gravity.

What replaced Kepler's theory of harmonics to explain planetary motions?

• The geocentric model.

• Copernicus's heliocentric theory.

• Newton's law of universal gravitation.

• Mendeleev's periodic table.

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How are scientific ideas, particularly theories, generally viewed?

• As universal instruction manuals that are fixed and unchanging.

• As work in progress, continually proposed, challenged, revised, or replaced.

• As absolute truths that require no further investigation.

• As mere hypotheses that lack any substantial evidence.

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Why do scientific laws usually resist change?

• They are based on unchangeable philosophical principles.

• They are rarely challenged by new information.

• They wouldn't have been adopted if they didn't fit the data.

• They are protected by scientific dogma.

What often happens when a new scientific discovery is made?

• All existing theories are immediately discarded.

• A single, definitive law is instantly formulated.

• Multiple theories may compete to provide the best explanation.

• Scientists stop research until a new theory emerges.

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Which type of theory do scientists tend to favor upon further research?

• The theory that is the oldest and most established.

• The theory that is the simplest to understand.

• The theory that can explain most of the data.

• The theory that aligns with popular opinion.