Chapter 1, Problem 41A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Difference between hypothesis, theory and law needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

Hypothesis is a testable statement or prediction. Theory is a hypothesis supported by many experiments. Law is a summary of accepted facts.

Answer to Problem 41A

Hypothesis is a prediction; theory is a detailed explanation of the phenomenon whereas law is the summary of proven facts.

Explanation of Solution

A limited explanation of a phenomenon is considered as hypothesis for example, consuming too much sugar on daily basis leads to obesity.

A theory is an in-depth explanation of the same phenomenon for example, theory of cultural revitalization, theory of collective behavior.

A law is the valid or proven statement about an observed phenomenon or a unifying concept for example, Newton’s Law of Gravity, Mendel’s Law of Independent Assortment, Pascal’s Law, Henry Law. These are the proven facts of the phenomenon occurring in nature.

Conclusion

Hypothesis is the shortest statement made about a phenomenon, theory is a detailed explanation of the same whereas law is the statement based on the repeated experiments or observations.