Chapter 5, Problem 43R

To determine

To compare and contrast: The scientific definitions of theory and law and to explain why the first law of thermodynamics is not a theory.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

A scientific law is based on a description of what we observe. A theory is an explanation of what causes the observation to exist.

A theory explains the observations based on logic. It can hold the reason a particular thing happens while the law would simply explain the result based on the theory and not how and why it happens. A theory of something cannot ever become law. It would be just an explanation and can fit into a large number of data of something, while the law remains restricted in a particular area. A theory is a result of general thinking, while the law is a rule which should be followed for any consequence.

The first law of thermodynamics, explains heat as a form of energy and cannot be created nor be destroyed, it again restructures the law of conservation of energy. It states a rule which is not based on the generalised thinking of masses. It’s a consequence of the result of many experiments.

Conclusion:

Hence, a theory explains the cause of something while a law simply gives or predicts its result.