How are scientific theories different from scientific laws?

Question

A. Theories are based on facts, while laws are based on opinions.
B. Theories are explanations, while laws are mathematical equations.
C. Theories are always proven, while laws are still being tested.
D. Theories can be modified, while laws are fixed and unchangeable.

Answer 1

The best option that captures the fundamental difference between scientific theories and scientific laws is:

B. Theories are explanations, while laws are mathematical equations.

Scientific theories provide explanations for a wide variety of phenomena based on evidence and can incorporate various laws, which are typically concise statements or equations that describe observed behaviors in nature under certain conditions. Unlike theories, laws do not attempt to explain why something happens; they simply describe what happens.