Final answer:
The statement 'Explain the data' is true for both scientific theories and laws, as they help analyze and make sense of data collected from various experiments and observations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question is regarding the characteristics that are common to both scientific theories and laws. Among the given options, the statement that is true for both theories and laws is (d) Explain the data. Both theories and laws are fundamental components of the scientific method and serve to analyze the data collected from experiments and observations. Theories provide comprehensive explanations of particular aspects of nature and can be modified with new data. Laws describe observed patterns in nature, often represented by mathematical equations, and predict occurrences within the natural world.
It is important to note that theories and laws are distinct forms of scientific knowledge. A theory will not become a law with more evidence; they have different roles in science. A theory explains phenomena, while a law describes patterns found in large data sets.