Final answer:
A theory is a supported explanation for phenomena, based on evidence, while a hypothesis is an educated guess used to start a scientific investigation.
Step-by-step explanation:
A theory is a well-developed set of ideas that proposes an explanation for observed phenomena, which has been repeatedly checked against the world, although too complex to be tested all at once. Researchers design hypotheses to test specific aspects of a theory. In simple terms, a theory is an advanced explanation supported by a body of evidence through extensive testing, whereas a hypothesis is an educated guess about a natural phenomenon, serving as a starting point for further investigation.
To compare and contrast a hypothesis and a scientific theory: A hypothesis is an educated guess about natural phenomena, which can be tested and verified through experimentation. A scientific theory, on the other hand, is an explanation of the natural world that is supported by a significant body of evidence and experimental support. Unlike the hypothesis, a theory has withstood extensive testing and validation.