Final answer:
A hypothesis is a testable and falsifiable tentative explanation, while a scientific theory is an extensively supported explanation for a wide range of phenomena, developed through the accumulation and testing of multiple hypotheses.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main difference between a hypothesis and a scientific theory is that a hypothesis is a tentative explanation that is testable and falsifiable, whereas a scientific theory is a well-substantiated explanation of some aspects of the natural world that is supported by a significant body of evidence and has stood the test of time through continued experimentation and observation. A hypothesis, often seen as an educated guess, can indeed be tested through one or multiple experiments, and if it is repeatedly verified, it may become part of a theory. In contrast, a scientific theory is the culmination of many tested and corroborated hypotheses and is widely accepted within the scientific community.
A scientific theory has gained high levels of confidence through repeated testing and is often used to make predictions that can be empirically tested. It's important to note that in science, even theories are not considered 'proven in the absolute sense but are instead supported by a vast array of evidence - they are as close to the truth as current evidence suggests, but they are open to revision with new evidence or reinterpretation of old facts.