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

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

1 answer

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