How does a law differ from a theory?

A law differs from a theory primarily in that a law describes what happens under specific conditions, often in a concise and clear statement that can be tested and observed repeatedly. Laws are typically based on empirical data and are accepted as universal truths based on consistent observations. For example, the law of gravity describes the predictable behavior of objects under the influence of gravity.

In contrast, a theory provides a broader explanation of phenomena. Theories are used to interpret and explain observations, incorporating laws, hypotheses, and evidence to understand complex systems. While a law summarizes a consistent pattern observed in nature, a theory explains why that pattern exists.

While some statements about how laws and theories might relate are true, such as a law not becoming a theory, the essential distinction lies in the focus of laws on describing phenomena rather than explaining them.