Answer:
A scientific law is a statement that summarizes a collection of observations or results from experiments. A theory describes and explains why a natural phenomenon occurs.
Step-by-step explanation:
A statement describing an observed phenomenon is called a scientific theory.
A scientific theory is a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world that is based on empirical evidence. It is not a mere guess or speculation, but rather a comprehensive framework that is supported by a substantial body of evidence.
A scientific theory goes beyond just a single observation or experiment and provides a broader understanding of a phenomenon. It incorporates multiple lines of evidence from various experiments and observations conducted by different scientists.
For example, the theory of evolution is a scientific theory that explains how species have evolved over time through a process of natural selection. It is supported by a wide range of evidence from fields such as paleontology, genetics, and comparative anatomy.
In contrast, a hypothesis is an educated guess or a proposed explanation for a specific phenomenon. It is more of a tentative statement that can be tested through experiments or further observations. A hypothesis can eventually become part of a scientific theory if it is repeatedly tested and supported by evidence.
A scientific law, on the other hand, is a description of an observed phenomenon or pattern in nature. It is a statement that describes what happens under certain conditions, but it does not explain why or how it happens. Scientific laws are typically expressed in mathematical equations, such as Newton's law of gravity or Boyle's law.
Methods, in this context, refer to the systematic procedures and techniques that scientists use to conduct their research and gather data. It encompasses the various tools, instruments, and experimental designs that are employed to investigate scientific questions. However, it is not the term used to describe a statement describing an observed phenomenon.
Therefore, the correct answer is theory.