For each of the statements below, indicate whether the statement describes a scientific theory, a scientific law, or both.

Question

Can be modified if new evidence or information arises- scientific theory scientific law both
Often represented by a mathematical formula- scientific theory scientific law both
Explains how a natural phenomenon works- scientific theory scientific theory both
Describes a relationship that always occurs under specific conditions- scientific theory scientific law both

Answer 1

Here’s the breakdown of each statement:

1. Can be modified if new evidence or information arises - scientific theory

   • Scientific theories can be updated or modified based on new evidence, while scientific laws are generally accepted as universal truths once established.

2. Often represented by a mathematical formula - scientific law

   • Scientific laws often have mathematical representations (like the law of gravity), while theories can also involve mathematics but are not primarily defined by it.

3. Explains how a natural phenomenon works - scientific theory

   • Scientific theories are designed to explain why and how phenomena occur, whereas laws describe what happens under certain conditions.

4. Describes a relationship that always occurs under specific conditions - scientific law

   • Scientific laws describe consistent and universal relationships or patterns that occur in nature under defined conditions.

To summarize:

• Can be modified if new evidence or information arises: scientific theory
• Often represented by a mathematical formula: scientific law
• Explains how a natural phenomenon works: scientific theory
• Describes a relationship that always occurs under specific conditions: scientific law