Distinguishing Scientific Laws from Theories

What is the primary difference between a scientific theory and a scientific law?

• A theory predicts what happens, while a law explains why.

• A law predicts what happens, while a theory explains why.

• A theory is always correct, while a law can be wrong.

• A law is always correct, while a theory can be wrong.

Which of the following is an example of a scientific law?

• Theory of Relativity

• Law of Gravity

• Big Bang Theory

• Theory of Evolution

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS2-4

What did Johannes Kepler theorize to explain planetary orbits?

• Cosmic musical harmonies

• Big Bang Theory

• Law of Gravity

• Theory of Relativity

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS1-4

What replaced Kepler's theory of harmonics to explain planetary motion?

• Quantum Mechanics

• Big Bang Theory

• Law of Gravity

• Theory of Relativity

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS2-4

How do scientists generally decide which theory to accept?

• The theory that explains most of the data

• The theory that is the most complex

• The theory that is the simplest

• The theory that is the oldest

What did Dmitri Mendeleev's theory about the periodic table predict?

• The structure of DNA

• Several undiscovered elements

• The speed of light

• The existence of black holes

Which of the following is an example of a discarded scientific theory?

• Geocentric model

• Theory of Evolution

• Theory of Relativity

• Law of Gravity

What was the birthplace of modern chemistry?

• Spontaneous generation

• Geocentric model

• Interstellar aether

• Alchemy

What can challenge the status quo of a scientific theory?

• A single unexpected result

• A new law

• A historical document

• A popular vote

Why does science need both laws and theories?

• To understand the whole picture

• To avoid making mistakes

• To ensure all scientists agree

• To make science more complex