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Define and distinguish between a hypothesis and a scientific theory

User Ravi Garg
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Final answer:

A hypothesis is an educated guess that functions as a preliminary explanation for a phenomenon and is testable. A scientific theory, in contrast, is a comprehensive and well-supported explanation for a range of observations and has been repeatedly tested and confirmed.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the scientific community, a hypothesis is an educated guess about a natural phenomenon. It is a testable statement that has not yet been substantiated by extensive evidence or experimentation. On the other hand, a scientific theory is an explanation of the natural world that has gained a high level of support through repeated testing and is widely accepted as a valid explanation of a phenomenon.

While a hypothesis is a starting point for investigation, a scientific theory is the culmination of many tested and confirmed hypotheses and reflects a broader understanding. A theory is supported by a vast body of evidence and provides a unifying explanation for a range of observations. In contrast, a hypothesis aims to be experimentally validated and may be accepted or rejected based on the evidence.

A scientific law, different from a hypothesis or a theory, is a statement that summarizes the relationship between variables and is often expressed mathematically. Scientific laws describe patterns in nature without explaining why they occur, whereas theories provide the explanatory context.

User EQuimper
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A hypothesis is an idea or explanation that you then test through study and experimentation. A scientific theory is a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world, based on a body of facts that have been repeatedly confirmed through observation and experiment. . Most hypotheses can be supported or refuted by experimentation or continued observation. Theory: A theory is more like a scientific law than a hypothesis. I hope this helps! Please give me stars to tell me how well I'm doing.

User Frodo
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