AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -A theory does not change into a scientific law with the accumulation of new or better evidence. Remember, theories are explanations and laws are patterns we see in large amounts of data, frequently written as an equation. A theory will always remain a theory; a law will always remain a law.

Detailed explanation-2: -Accepted theories may be modified or overturned as new evidence and perspective emerges. Scientists are likely to accept a new or modified theory if it explains everything the old theory did and more.

Detailed explanation-3: -Both scientific laws and theories are considered scientific fact. However, theories and laws can be disproven when new evidence emerges. Certain accepted truths of Newtonian physics were partially disproven by Albert Einstein’s theory of relativity.

Detailed explanation-4: -Scientific theories can be changed or replaced when new information disproving the current theory becomes available. All scientific theories are based on observable, testable evidence and when new information is discovered that disagrees with the current theory the theory can be modified (or discarded).

Detailed explanation-5: -In general, a scientific law is the description of an observed phenomenon. It doesn’t explain why the phenomenon exists or what causes it. The explanation for a phenomenon is called a scientific theory. It is a misconception that theories turn into laws with enough research.