Question

gwen and tomas ran the experiment again after applying some lubricant to the cart wheels and checking the calibration on the motion detector. this time, the two calculations of final kinetic energy agreed with one another, suggesting that energy was conserved. (whew!) in general, is it possible for experiments to show that a model or relationship (like newton's law of gravitation, or hooke's law, or the relationships that describe friction) to be incorrect?

Answer 1

Yes, it is possible for experiments to show that a model or relationship to be incorrect, as scientific theories and models are based on empirical evidence and observations that are subject to revision based on new experiments and observations.

Step-by-step explanation:

Yes, it is possible for experiments to show that a model or relationship, like Newton's law of gravitation or Hooke's law or the relationships that describe friction, to be incorrect.

Scientific theories and models are based on empirical evidence and observations, but they are not infallible. As new experiments and observations are conducted, it is possible to find inconsistencies or exceptions that challenge the validity of a specific model or relationship. These findings may lead to the refinement or revision of existing theories or the development of new theories to better explain the observed phenomena.

Answer 2

Experiments can indeed indicate if a scientific model or law is incorrect when new conditions or observations come to light. Scientific laws are subject to ongoing testing and can be refined or replaced over time as our understanding improves.

Step-by-step explanation:

Yes, it is possible for experiments to show that a model or relationship, like Newton's law of gravitation, Hooke's Law, or the relationships that describe friction, is incorrect. This is because these laws and models are based on observations and experiments that have certain limitations or initial conditions. When new observations or experiments are conducted under different conditions or with greater precision, they can reveal limitations or exceptions to the existing laws, leading to modifications or the development of new theories. For example, Newton's laws work well for macroscopic objects but do not accurately describe the behavior of particles at a quantum mechanical level where quantum mechanics is more applicable.

The process of scientific inquiry involves continuously testing and verifying the validity of scientific models. A scientific theory or law is considered robust if it consistently predicts experimental results across a wide range of conditions. However, science is always evolving, and theories could be refined or replaced as our understanding and technology improve. Experiments such as the one mentioned, involving energy conservation and kinetic energy calculations, can be used to test the accuracy of the physical models we rely on.