Is plate tectonics a scientific law or theory?

Question

Asher Cohen · Accepted Answer

Theory

In science, a theory and a law are two distinct concepts; neither is superior to the other. A Law is an explanation of a specific phenomenon usually of a detailed cause/effect or relationship. Ex. #E=mc^2# explains the relation between energy and mass in the Universe A theory is a more comprehensive explanation of phenomena with predictive abilities. ALL ideas must pass multiple tests and "falsifications" (attempts to disprove them) in order to be called a theory. Once an idea passes a test, it becomes the best explanation available to us for the events under consideration; if it fails, it is discarded and a new theory must be proposed. For example, the theory of gravity will always remain our best explanation of the events in question. Recall that science does not start with an answer and then attempt to justify it by focusing only on evidence that supports the presumptive answer. Rather, science follows the evidence wherever it may lead, free from prejudice.

Ariana Acosta · Answer

It's a theory. It's too complex to be reduced to a law

The essence of a law is nearly mathematical: Newton's Law of Motion is a property of motion that is nearly impossible to derive from a more fundamental form. Any statement about plates, which are far from fundamental like particles, is a theory because plate tectonics is a property of their behavior.

Ian Aitchison · Answer

undefined A scientific theory is called plate tectonics.