your answer. Distinguish between the terms theory, law., and fact and hypothesis. Contrast the two

Let's break down these important scientific terms:**1. Fact:*** **Definition:** A fact is an observation that has been repeatedly confirmed and is accepted as true. It's a basic statement established by experiment or observation. Facts are objective and verifiable.* **Example:** Water boils at 100°C (at standard atmospheric pressure). This can be easily demonstrated and verified.**2. Hypothesis:*** **Definition:** A hypothesis is a proposed explanation for a phenomenon. It's a testable prediction based on limited evidence. A hypothesis is essentially an educated guess that can be supported or refuted through experimentation or further observation.* **Example:** If plants are exposed to classical music, they will grow taller. This is a testable statement that can be investigated through an experiment.**3. Theory:*** **Definition:** A scientific theory is a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world that can incorporate facts, laws, inferences, and tested hypotheses. Theories are not mere guesses; they are comprehensive explanations supported by a large body of evidence. They explain *why* things happen.* **Example:** The Theory of Evolution by Natural Selection explains how life on Earth has changed over time through the process of natural selection. It's supported by fossil evidence, genetic studies, and observations of populations in the wild.**4. Law:*** **Definition:** A scientific law describes a generalized observation about a relationship between two or more things in the natural world. It often takes the form of a mathematical equation and describes *what* will happen under certain conditions. Laws don't explain *why* something happens; they simply state that it does.* **Example:** Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation states that every particle attracts every other particle in the universe with a force proportional to the product of their masses and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between their centers. It describes the force of gravity but doesn't explain why gravity exists.**Contrasting Theory and Law:**The key difference between a theory and a law lies in their purpose:* **Laws describe, theories explain.** A law tells us *what* happens, while a theory tells us *why* it happens.* **Laws are often expressed mathematically, theories are not.** Laws often provide a concise mathematical relationship between variables, whereas theories are more descriptive and explanatory.* **Theories can encompass laws.** A theory can incorporate multiple laws and explain how they are related. For example, the kinetic theory of gases explains the behavior of gases and incorporates several gas laws, like Boyle's Law and Charles's Law.It's important to note that in science, "theory" doesn't mean a guess or a hunch. Scientific theories are powerful, well-supported explanations that have withstood rigorous testing. They are the cornerstone of scientific understanding.