Final answer:
Scientific theories and scientific laws are concepts that result from the scientific method, which involves making observations, forming hypotheses, and conducting experiments to test these hypotheses. Theories are comprehensive explanations based on robust evidence, while laws summarize and predict natural phenomena. Hypotheses are proposals that can be tested and facts are observations commonly accepted as true.
Step-by-step explanation:
When statements are based on facts established through the scientific method and/or repeated experimentation and review, they can fall into different categories: scientific theories, scientific laws, individual hypotheses, and facts. Scientific theories are well-substantiated, comprehensive, testable explanations of particular aspects of nature and are supported by a large body of evidence. Scientific laws are statements that summarize a vast number of experimental observations, and describe or predict some facet of the natural world. An individual hypothesis is a suggested explanation for an event, which can be tested. Finally, facts are observations that have been repeatedly confirmed and are accepted as true.
The scientific method, which includes making observations, proposing hypotheses, testing these hypotheses, and reaching conclusions, plays a crucial role in determining what can be considered a scientific theory or law. Hypotheses that are confirmed through this method may eventually lead to the development of scientific theories or contribute to scientific laws if they are proven to consistently predict phenomena.