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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Hypothesis and Theory?

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The main difference between a hypothesis and a theory lies in their definitions, purposes, and levels of certainty.

  • Hypothesis: A hypothesis is an educated guess based on certain data that acts as a foundation for further investigation. It is an assumption made before any research has been done and is formed so that it can be tested to see if it might be true. A hypothesis is usually specific to one occurrence and is testable, meaning it can be supported or refuted by evidence. If a hypothesis is tested and proven true, it may evolve into a theory.
  • Theory: A theory is a principle formed to explain the things already shown in data. It is a tested, well-substantiated, unifying explanation for a set of verified, proven factors and is backed by evidence. A theory is more likely to be true than a hypothesis due to the rigors of experiment and control. Theories are general principles that can apply to multiple specific situations and may also deal with broader natural phenomena.

In summary:

  • A hypothesis is a tentative explanation or prediction based on limited data, which can be tested and may become a theory if proven true.
  • A theory is a well-established explanation of a natural phenomenon, validated through observation and experimentation, and backed by evidence.
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  • What is the Difference Between Hypothesis and Theory?
  • Comparative Table: Hypothesis vs Theory

    • Comparative Table: Hypothesis vs Theory

    Here is a table comparing hypotheses and theories:

    Feature Hypothesis Theory
    Definition A hypothesis is a suggested explanation for an observable phenomenon or a reasoned prediction of a possible causal correlation among multiple phenomena. A theory is a tested, well-substantiated, unifying explanation for a set of verified, proven factors.
    Basis Hypotheses are usually based on a very specific observation and are limited to that instance. Theories are the establishment of a general principle through multiple tests and experiments, and this principle may apply to various specific instances.
    Purpose To present an uncertain possibility that can be explored further through experiments and observations. To explain why a large set of observations are consistently made.
    Testability Hypotheses are testable and can be falsified. Theories are backed by evidence and have been tested and verified.
    Example A hypothesis might be that drinking a specific type of beverage causes a migraine. This is a testable and falsifiable statement. An example of a theory is Einstein's theory of relativity, which has been tested and verified innumerable times.

    In summary, a hypothesis is a suggested explanation or prediction that can be tested and is often based on specific observations. In contrast, a theory is a well-substantiated, unifying explanation that has been tested and verified and applies to a broader range of phenomena or instances.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.