Identify each of the following statements as being most similar to a hypothesis, a law, or a theory. Explain your reasoning.
(a) The pressure of a sample of gas is directly proportional to the temperature of the gas.
(b) Matter consists of tiny particles that can combine in specific ratios to form substances with specific properties.
(c) At a higher temperature, solids (such as salt or sugar) will dissolve better in water.

Solution:

Part a

Law, because it states a consistently observed phenomenon and it can be used for prediction.

Part b

Theory, because it is a widely accepted explanation of the origin of species.

Part c

Hypothesis, it is a tentative explanation and it can be investigated by experimentation.

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