Hypothesis, Theories and Laws

A theory is a well tested, widely accepted explaination that combines several hypotheses and observations.

​

*Can predict what may happen in the future.

*Can be modified or replaced based on new information or technology.​

​

Kinetic Molecular Theory: All matter is made up of atoms that are constantly moving.

​Theories

A law is a statement about how something behaves or functions in the natural world.

*Is based on observations

*Does not explain observations

* Is a factual statement

*Cannot be changed or replaced.​

​

​

​

Newton's first law of motion

​Laws

*Hypotheses come from scientific questions, are based on prior knowledge or research, and must be testable.

​

*Theories explain hypotheses and observation.​ Theories may be changed over time.

​

*Laws describe how things behave or function.​

​

*400 BCE- Democritus coined the term atomos for atmos

*1780s- Lavoisier developed the law of conservation of mass.

​*1803-Dalton developed the first atomic theory of matter

*1897- Thomas discovered electrons

*1911- Rutherford discovered the nucleus

1913- Bohr found evidence that electrons are arranged in energy levels.

1926- Schrodinger's work led to the electron cloud model.

​

Atomic Theory: All substances are composed of tiny particles called atoms.

• Cathode Rays Lead to Thomson's Model of the Atom - YouTube

• ​The Discovery of the Atomic Nucleus (3 of 15) - YouTube

• Discovery of neutron - YouTube ​