Page 14 - Science Course 1 (Book 1)

Mo.1-L1b : What are Scientific Theory and Scientific Law?

Law of Conservation of Energy Comparing Scientific Theory and Scientific Law
The law of conservation of energy
states that in any chemical reac- Scientific Theory Scientific Law
tion or physical change, energy is
neither created nor destroyed. The A Scientific theory is Scientific laws are
total energy of particles before and based on repeated observation of similar
after collisions is the same. observations and events that have been
scientific investigation. observed repeatedly.
However, this scientific law, like all
scientific laws, does not explain If new information does If new observations do
energy is conserved. It simply states the energy
why not support a scientific not follow the law, the
is conserved. theory, the theory will be law is rejected.
modified or rejected.
Scientific Theory Scientific Law A scientific theory A scientific law states
attempts to explain why that something will
A Scientific theory is an A Scientific Law states something happens. happen.
explanation of why or that an event will occur.
how an event occurred. For example energy will A scientific theory usually A scientific law usally
For example, collisions be conserved when par- is more complex than a contains one well-sup-
of particles of a gas are ticles collide. It does not scientific law and might ported hypothesis that
elastic collisions. explain why an event will contain many states that an event will
Therefore, no kinetic en- occur or how it will occur. well-supported occur.
ergy is lost. A theory can Scientific laws work un- hypothesis.
be rejected or modified der specific conditions
if someone observe an in nature. A law stands
event that disproves true until an observation
the theory. A theory will is made that does not fol- Key Concept
never become a law. low the law. How are a scientific law and scientific
theory different?
BOTH are base on repeated observations and can be
rejected or modified.

Evaluating Scientific Information

Whether you are reading printed media or watching
commercials on TV, it is important that you are
skeptical, identify facts and opinions, and think
critically about the information.

Critical thinking is comparing what you already
know with the information you are given in order to
decide whether you agree with it.

Analysis Communication

Creativity Problem-Solving Open-Mindedness

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