Scientific Theories and Laws
This page of the Components of a cell doodle notes study guide PDF explores the concepts of scientific theories and laws, using cell theory as a primary example.
The guide defines and differentiates between scientific theories and laws:
Definition: A scientific theory is a well-substantiated explanation of aspects of the natural world, while a scientific law describes some aspects of the natural world, often as a mathematical equation.
It provides examples of both theories e.g.,TheoryofEvolution,BigBangTheory,CellTheory and laws e.g.,LawofConservation,Newton′sLawsofMotion.
The page also discusses the theory of spontaneous generation and its refutation by the theory of biogenesis. This historical context helps students understand the development and importance of scientific theories in biology.
Vocabulary: Biogenesis refers to the theory that living things only come from other living things through reproduction.
This section enhances students' understanding of the nature of science and how scientific knowledge evolves.