Anonymous

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

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John McCann Profile
John McCann answered

A scientific law is a repeated experimental observation that describes some aspect of the universe

A scientific theory is a well supported explanation of some natural phenomenon. 


Ancient One Profile
Ancient One answered

One is a maybe. The other is fact.

thanked the writer.
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Charles Davis
Charles Davis commented
I take it you didn't read what Theory means at dictionary.com, because "law" is a synonym to theory.
1. a coherent group of tested general propositions, commonly regarded as correct, that can be used as principles of explanation and prediction for a class of phenomena:
Einstein's theory of relativity.
Synonyms: principle, law, doctrine.
John McCann
John McCann commented
@ Charles Davis

I take it you don't read at all!

" If dictionary.com told you that you must not be educated well enough to know better. "

I don't give a damn what dictionary.com says, law is not a synonym to theory.

You are confused between description and explanation. Seems dictionary.com is also.


This...,

" A scientific theory is a well supported explanation of some natural phenomenon. "

maps well onto this...,

" 1. a coherent group of tested general propositions, commonly regarded as correct, that can be used as principles of explanation and prediction for a class of phenomena: "



And if you don't see that then that is your problem. It is best you say far away from science then. Take up English of some other less rigorous pursuit.

Goodbye.
Charles Davis
Charles Davis commented
Wow, so insulting you are, a little close minded as well? Us hah skol droputs jes don unerstand. Sheesh
Charles Davis Profile
Charles Davis answered

There are no "laws" in science, the highest category in science is a "theory". In science the term "law" and "theory" is the same.

Dictionary.com

Theory:
a coherent group of tested general propositions,commonly regarded as correct, that can be used as principles of explanation and prediction for a class of phenomena:

Einstein's theory of relativity.

Synonyms: principle, law, doctrine.


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