Laws vs Theories

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What is a dependent variable?

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The dependent variable is the factor that is measured or observed in an experiment, which changes in response to the independent variable.

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NGSS.MS-PS2-2

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What is an independent variable?

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The independent variable is the factor that is changed or controlled in an experiment to test its effects on the dependent variable.

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NGSS.MS-PS1-2

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What is a scientific law?

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A scientific law is a statement that describes a consistent and universal relationship observed in nature, often expressed mathematically.

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What is a scientific theory?

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A scientific theory is a well-tested explanation for a wide range of observations and experimental results, which can change with new evidence.

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Give an example of a scientific law.

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Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation is an example, stating that every mass attracts every other mass.

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NGSS.HS-PS2-4

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Give an example of a scientific theory.

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The Theory of Evolution explains how species change over time through natural selection.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-1

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

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What does it mean when a theory changes?

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It means that new observations or evidence have been found that provide a better explanation of the phenomena.

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NGSS.HS-ESS1-2

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What is the purpose of a scientific law?

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The purpose of a scientific law is to describe what happens under certain conditions without explaining why it happens.

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What is the difference between a law and a theory?

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A law describes what happens, while a theory explains why it happens.

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What is an example of a dependent variable in an experiment?

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In an experiment testing how temperature affects the decaying process of apples, the decaying process of apples is the dependent variable.