Which statement correctly differentiates between a fact and a claim?

The statement that clearly differentiates between a fact and a claim is that a claim is opinion-related and can be challenged, while a fact is proven and unchallengeable.

A fact is an objective statement about reality that can be verified through evidence, data, or observation. It remains constant regardless of personal beliefs or opinions. For example, "Water boils at 100 degrees Celsius at sea level" is a fact that can be tested and confirmed.

On the other hand, a claim is an assertion that expresses a judgement or opinion which can be contested or disputed. Claims are often subjective and can vary widely among different people or groups, reflecting individual beliefs or interpretations rather than universally accepted truths. For instance, the statement "Cats are better pets than dogs" is a claim that can be argued and does not have a definitive proof.

Therefore, the understanding of facts as immutable truths backed by evidence, and claims as permissible assertions open to challenge, is key to distinguishing the two concepts.