Which of the following best describes the difference between a scientific theory and a scientific law in the context of atomic theory?

• A. A law can be changed with new evidence, but a theory cannot.
• B. A law is less supported by evidence than a theory.
• C. A theory explains why phenomena occur, while a law describes what happens under certain conditions.
• D. A theory is based only on mathematical equations, while a law is based on experimental observations.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definitions of a scientific theory and a scientific law. A scientific theory is a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world that is based on a body of evidence and can explain why phenomena occur.
2. Step 2: Recognize that a scientific law describes a consistent relationship observed in nature, often expressed mathematically, and tells what happens under certain conditions without explaining why.
3. Step 3: Analyze the options given in the problem by comparing them to these definitions. For example, consider whether laws or theories are more supported by evidence, or if either can change with new evidence.
4. Step 4: Identify that the key difference is that a theory provides an explanation (the 'why'), while a law describes a pattern or rule (the 'what') observed in nature.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the best description is: 'A theory explains why phenomena occur, while a law describes what happens under certain conditions.' This aligns with the fundamental roles of theories and laws in scientific understanding.