The distinction between scientific theories and laws primarily lies in their purpose and the nature of what they explain.
Scientific Theories: These are comprehensive explanations of some aspect of nature that are backed by a substantial body of evidence. Theories explain why phenomena occur, providing the underlying mechanisms or reasons for observed events. They often integrate and interpret various laws and empirical observations.
Scientific Laws: These are statements that describe observable phenomena, typically expressed in concise mathematical terms. Laws describe how phenomena occur under certain conditions but do not provide explanations for why they occur.
Thus, the correct differentiation is: Theories explain why phenomena occur, while laws describe how phenomena occur.
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