Theory Law Hypothesis Fact

A well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world that can incorporate facts, laws, inferences, and tested hypotheses.

• Fact

• Theory

• Law

• Conclusion

Scientific theories are based on

• general assumptions of how systems work.
• mathematical principles that can be proven true.
• large amounts of data collected over time.
• observations from within only one scientific discipline.

Kalinda was trying to explain to her friend the difference between a theory and a law in science.  She used the theory of plate tectonics and the law of superposition as examples.  Kalinda explained the difference by using nonscientific language.  Which statement did Kalinda use to correctly describe the difference between a theory and a law in science?

• A theory describes a natural event, while a law explains it.
• A theory explains a natural event, while a law predicts it.
• A theory explains a natural event, while a law describes it.
• A theory predicts a natural event, while a law explains it.

Laws are usually mathematically defined.

• True
• False

A scientific ____________ is a statement that describes what always happens under certain conditions in nature.

• law
• theory
• method
• variable

A scientific ____________ is a broad explanation for events that is widely accepted as true.

• law
• theory
• observation
• method

A set of principles that explains and predicts a phenomena is called a _____. 

• scientific law
• scientific method
• scientific theory
• scientific instructor

An object at rest will remain at rest unless acted on by an unbalanced force.
An object in motion continues in motion with the same speed and in the same direction unless acted upon by an unbalanced force. 

• Fact
• Theory
• Law

The EARTH is made of the following CHEMICAL ELEMENTS:
oxygen 46.6 %
aluminum 8.1 %
iron 5%
sodium 2.8 %

• Fact
• Theory
• Law

Generally refers to the idea that the universe has expanded from a primordial hot and dense initial condition at some finite time in the past, and continues to expand to this day.

• Fact
• Theory
• Law