What Is Scientific Law?

According to Wikipedia, scientific laws also referred to as the laws of science are statements which describe and predict different natural phenomena. The laws are supported by results that are derived from extensive testing, research, and observation. These laws majorly profess its existence but do not explain how it works. In order for any law to be referred to as a scientific law, the statement must describe an aspect in the universe and be based on repeated experimental evidence. Even though some scientific laws are stated by words, most of them are expressed through mathematical equations.

In a nutshell, we can define scientific law as the basic and fundamental principles of science. It is a statement that expresses a specific relationship which remains true under any circumstances. Outcomes of scientific laws do not change any matter the conditions it is subjected to.

Background of scientific laws
Some science jargons related to scientific laws are “Facts”, “Theory” and “Hypothesis”. In many instances, these three terms are easily misunderstood and referred to scientific laws, but that’s totally wrong. Yes, the three terms are related to scientific laws, but they are not similar. The main difference is that the laws of science have been tested more than the other three. This is referred to as empirical testing.

Let’s have a look at the differences between scientific laws, Facts, Hypothesis, and Theory?
Hypothesis – A major difference between the law of science and hypothesis is that hypothesis tries to explain observations found in the universe, while the law is only based on observation. In plain English, hypothesis focuses on explaining the question why things are the way they are, while the law states what things are.

Theory – According to the scientific method process, it begins with the formulation of a hypothesis. This is an educated guess that is based on observation. The hypothesis is then subjected to vigorous tests through research. After carrying out research and verifying a hypothesis, it is then changed to become a theory.

Facts – Scientific facts are simple observations that have been shown to be true. On the other hand, scientific laws are generalized observations about relationships between two or more things in the universe.

Major characteristics of scientific laws

One major characteristic of laws of science is that they emerge from physics. In addition, they are represented by mathematical formulas in form of equations. These formulas are then used to predict the outcome of natural phenomena.

Nevertheless, it is important to note that these laws are not absolute. In fact, nothing in science is absolute. The laws can be changed by future observations. In fact, according to the University of California scientific laws should be flexible. It should have exceptions and should evolve over time, just like Newton’s law of gravity which breaks down when studying sub-atomic elements (quantum).

As we wrap up, below are additional scientific law essay help resources read:

– Midwestern State University -> What to Expect, the Scientific Method and Metrics
– Kennesaw State University -> Scientific Laws and Theories
– National Center for Science Education -> Definitions of Theory, Fact, and the Law in Scientific Works

Examples of scientific laws:
– Newton’s second law of motion
– Law of constant composition
– Henry’s law
– Law of conservation of mass


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