What is the difference between hypothesis and theory?

Definitions

hypothesis

- Used in scientific research to propose a tentative explanation for an observed phenomenon.

- Refers to an educated guess or prediction based on limited evidence or prior knowledge.

- Often used in experiments to test a specific hypothesis and determine its validity.

theory

- Used in science to describe a well-substantiated explanation for a natural phenomenon.

- Refers to a set of principles or ideas that explain a particular phenomenon or behavior.

- Often supported by extensive research and experimentation, and can be used to make predictions about future events.

List of Similarities

• 1. Both are used in scientific research.
• 2. Both involve proposing explanations for observed phenomena.
• 3. Both can be tested and validated through experimentation.
• 4. Both are subject to revision or modification based on new evidence or data.
• 5. Both are used to make predictions about future events.

What is the difference?

• 1. Scope: Hypothesis is a narrower and more specific explanation, while theory is a broader and more general explanation.
• 2. Evidence: Hypothesis is based on limited evidence or prior knowledge, while theory is supported by extensive research and experimentation.
• 3. Certainty: Hypothesis is uncertain and tentative, while theory is more certain and well-established.
• 4. Predictive power: Hypothesis has limited predictive power, while theory can be used to make accurate predictions about future events.
• 5. Usage: Hypothesis is typically used in scientific research, while theory can be used in various fields, including science, philosophy, and social sciences.

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Remember this!

Hypothesis and theory are both used in scientific research to explain observed phenomena. However, the difference between hypothesis and theory is their scope, evidence, certainty, predictive power, and usage. A hypothesis is a tentative explanation based on limited evidence or prior knowledge, while a theory is a well-substantiated explanation supported by extensive research and experimentation. A hypothesis is narrower and less certain than a theory, which is broader and more established.