A scientific law is a statement based on repeated experimental observation that describes some aspect of the world. A scientific law always applies under the same conditions, and implies that there is a causal relationship involving its elements. Factual and well-confirmed statements like "Mercury is liquid at standard temperature and pressure" are considered to be too specific to qualify as scientific laws. A central problem in the philosophy of science, going back to David Hume, is that of distinguishing causal relationships (such as those implied by laws) from principles that arise due to constant conjunction.[1]
Laws differ from scientific theories in that they do not posit a mechanism or explanation of phenomena: they are merely distillations of the results of repeated observation. As such, a law is limited in applicability to circumstances resembling those already observed, and may be found to be false when extrapolated. Ohm's law only applies to linear networks, Newton's law of universal gravitation only applies in weak gravitational fields, the early laws of aerodynamics such as Bernoulli's principle do not apply in case of compressible flow such as occurs in transonic and supersonic flight, Hooke's law only applies to strain below the elastic limit, etc. These laws remain useful, but only under the conditions where they apply.
A rule in physics is a general principle or guideline that describes a specific phenomenon or behavior. It is often used to make predictions or explain observations. A law, on the other hand, is a fundamental principle that has been extensively tested and verified through experiments and observations. It is considered to be universally true and can be used to make accurate predictions about physical phenomena.
Rules in physics are often established through observations and experiments. Scientists make observations about a particular phenomenon and then develop a rule that describes its behavior. Laws, on the other hand, are established through extensive testing and verification. This involves conducting multiple experiments and observations to ensure that the law holds true in all cases.
Yes, a rule can be upgraded to a law in physics if it has been extensively tested and verified through experiments and observations. This means that the rule has been shown to hold true in all cases and has become a fundamental principle that can be used to make accurate predictions about physical phenomena.
Rules and laws play a crucial role in physics as they help us understand and explain the behavior of the physical world. They provide a framework for making predictions and understanding complex phenomena. Without rules and laws, it would be difficult to make sense of the vast and intricate nature of the universe.
No, rules and laws may differ in different branches of physics. This is because different branches of physics may focus on different phenomena and use different methods of observation and experimentation. However, the fundamental principles and laws of physics, such as the laws of motion and thermodynamics, are consistent across all branches of physics.