Distinguishing Fact, Theory, Hypothesis, and Law

The video explains the nature of scientific theories, emphasizing that terms like 'fact', 'theory', 'hypothesis', and 'law' have specific meanings in science. It highlights the process of developing theories through testing hypotheses and making predictions. Examples like Germ Theory and Evolution illustrate how theories are robust frameworks for understanding phenomena. The video also discusses gravity as both a theory and a law, showing the complexity of scientific concepts. Finally, it underscores the evolving nature of science and the importance of trusting its processes.

What is the main purpose of understanding scientific terminology?

• To better understand how the universe works

• To sound smarter in conversations

• To win arguments on social media

• To confuse people with complex words

In science, what are facts primarily based on?

• Laws

• Observations

• Hypotheses

• Theories

What is the main difference between a hypothesis and a theory?

• A hypothesis is tested, while a theory is a well-substantiated explanation

• A hypothesis is a proven fact, while a theory is just a guess

• A hypothesis is a law, while a theory is not

• A hypothesis is more reliable than a theory

Which of the following is an example of a theory?

• Objects fall to the ground

• Evolution by natural selection

• The sun rises in the east

• People get sick

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS4-2

NGSS.HS-LS4-4

What does the Germ Theory of Disease help us understand?

• Why people get sick

• How gravity works

• The structure of the universe

• The behavior of gases

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

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

• A law explains why something happens, while a theory describes how

• A law describes how something happens, while a theory explains why

• A law is a hypothesis, while a theory is a fact

What does Newton’s Law of Universal Gravitation describe?

• How two objects attract each other based on mass and distance

• Why objects fall

• The structure of the universe

• The behavior of gases

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS2-4

What is the Theory of Gravity also known as?

• Germ Theory

• Quantum Mechanics

• Newton's Law

• General Relativity

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS2-4

Why is science considered to be never done?

• Because it is always changing and evolving

• Because scientists are never satisfied

• Because it is based on guesses

• Because it is not reliable

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS1-2

What is the ultimate goal of science?

• To prove all theories wrong

• To devise frameworks that describe how things work

• To stop changing and evolving

• To make everything a law