What term describes a descriptive statement or equation that reliably predicts events under certain conditions?

The term "law" in a scientific context refers to a descriptive statement or equation that consistently predicts events under specific conditions. Scientific laws are derived from repeated experimental observations and have been tested rigorously, demonstrating reliability and universality across various scenarios. They often summarize a relationship observed in nature and can usually be expressed mathematically.

For example, Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation provides a concise formula that predicts the gravitational force between two objects based on their masses and the distance between them. Laws differ from theories, which are broader explanations that interpret observations and underlying mechanisms but may not possess the same level of predictability or simplicity as laws do. By establishing a clear cause-and-effect relationship, laws provide a foundational understanding of natural phenomena, allowing scientists to make precise predictions based on established criteria.