hypothesis meaning in science fair

What is a hypothesis?

No.  A hypothesis is sometimes described as an educated guess.  That's not the same thing as a guess and not really a good description of a hypothesis either.  Let's try working through an example.

If you put an ice cube on a plate and place it on the table, what will happen?  A very young child might guess that it will still be there in a couple of hours.  Most people would agree with the hypothesis that:

An ice cube will melt in less than 30 minutes.

You could put sit and watch the ice cube melt and think you've proved a hypothesis.  But you will have missed some important steps.

For a good science fair project you need to do quite a bit of research before any experimenting.  Start by finding some information about how and why water melts.  You could read a book, do a bit of Google searching, or even ask an expert.  For our example, you could learn about how temperature and air pressure can change the state of water.  Don't forget that elevation above sea level changes air pressure too.

Now, using all your research, try to restate that hypothesis.

An ice cube will melt in less than 30 minutes in a room at sea level with a temperature of 20C or 68F.

But wait a minute.  What is the ice made from?  What if the ice cube was made from salt water, or you sprinkled salt on a regular ice cube?  Time for some more research.  Would adding salt make a difference?  Turns out it does.  Would other chemicals change the melting time?

Using this new information, let's try that hypothesis again.

An ice cube made with tap water will melt in less than 30 minutes in a room at sea level with a temperature of 20C or 68F.

Does that seem like an educated guess?  No, it sounds like you are stating the obvious.

At this point, it is obvious only because of your research.  You haven't actually done the experiment.  Now it's time to run the experiment to support the hypothesis.

A hypothesis isn't an educated guess.  It is a tentative explanation for an observation, phenomenon, or scientific problem that can be tested by further investigation.

Once you do the experiment and find out if it supports the hypothesis, it becomes part of scientific theory.

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Science Fair Projects Hypothesis: Crafting a Winning Proposal

Crafting a solid science fair projects hypothesis is a critical step in the scientific process as you prepare your projects and ideas. A hypothesis is essentially your educated guess about what will happen in your experiment based on current knowledge and previous research. It provides a clear direction for your study, allowing you to make predictions that can be tested through experimentation.

Understanding the importance of a hypothesis will not only guide your experimentation but also illuminate the thought process that scientists use to explore questions and seek answers. Whether your hypothesis turns out to be correct or not, it forms the foundation of a methodical inquiry, setting the stage for gaining new insights or understanding why an experiment yielded unexpected results.

Your ability to formulate a testable hypothesis can impress science fair judges as much as your experimental results. It showcases your grasp of the scientific method, the diligence with which you’ve controlled your experiment, and your vision for future research improvements. Therefore, take the time to develop a hypothesis that is both reasonable and testable, as it will be pivotal in driving your science fair project forward.

Understanding Hypotheses

In your journey through a science fair project, a solid grasp of what a hypothesis is and how it functions is fundamental. This understanding will guide your experimental design and analysis.

Defining a Hypothesis

A hypothesis is a testable prediction that explains a phenomenon or answers a specific question. To craft a usable hypothesis, you begin with an observation and then propose a plausible explanation that you can verify through experimentation. According to Science Buddies , it’s your tentative answer to a well-framed question based on the available information and knowledge.

Types of Hypotheses

There are generally two types of hypotheses used in scientific experiments:

• Null Hypothesis (H0) : States there is no effect or no relationship between variables. It is something you seek to disprove.
• Alternative Hypothesis (H1) : This is what you propose as a potential explanation when the null hypothesis is rejected. It indicates the presence of an effect or relationship.

It’s vital to understand that both types of hypotheses can be used to direct your research process, allowing for structured experimentation.

Role of Hypotheses in Science

In the scientific world, hypotheses play a crucial role. They act as a compass for your research, directing your experimental activities. A clear hypothesis provides a focus for collecting data and making conclusions. Whether your hypothesis is eventually supported or rejected, it significantly contributes to the advancement of scientific knowledge by pointing toward new research questions and experiments.

Designing the Experiment

When you’re ready to bring your science fair project to life, careful planning of your experiment is crucial. This involves considering all variables and crafting a hypothesis that is not only testable but also directly addresses your research question.

Variables in Experiments

Your experiment’s outcome is influenced by various factors known as variables . There are two primary types:

• Independent Variable : This is the variable you’ll change deliberately to observe the effects on the dependent variable. It’s what you’re testing.
• Dependent Variable : This is the variable you’ll measure, as it’s expected to change in response to the independent variable.

Controlled Variables are those that must be kept constant to ensure that any change in the dependent variable is directly due to the manipulation of the independent variable.

Below is an example of how variables might be presented in a simple experiment:

Developing a Testable Hypothesis

A testable hypothesis provides a clear prediction about the relationship between the independent and dependent variables. It should be specific and focused, such as “If the amount of sunlight a plant receives each day increases, then the growth of the plant will increase.”

To create your hypothesis, start with a question. Use insights about similar experiments from resources like Writing a Hypothesis for Your Science Fair Project to frame a predictive statement. Once developed, your hypothesis will guide the design of your experiment’s procedures, ensuring that you are effectively testing what you set out to explore.

Selecting a Topic

When embarking on a science fair project, the initial choice of topic sets the stage for your entire investigation. It is crucial to select a topic that is not only interesting but also feasible for experimentation.

Popular Science Fields

Several fields consistently provide rich ground for science fair projects:

• Biology : Study of living organisms and vital processes.
• Chemistry : Exploration of substances and their interactions.
• Physics : Inquiry into matter, energy, and the fundamental forces of nature.
• Environmental Science : Examination of the relationship between organisms and their environment.
• Engineering : Application of scientific principles to design or build structures, machines, or materials.

Criteria for Topic Selection

When picking your science fair project topic, use the following criteria to guide you:

• Feasibility : Can you realistically conduct experiments on this topic with available resources?
• Interest : Are you genuinely curious about this subject matter? Will it maintain your attention?
• Originality : Is your approach to the topic unique or does it add new insight?
• Scope : Is your topic too broad or narrow? Ensure it can be addressed effectively within the project timeframe.
• Relevance : Does your topic tie in with current scientific questions or societal issues?

Your topic is the foundation of your science fair project. Choose wisely to ensure a rewarding research experience.

Research and Background Study

Before you dive into your science fair project, it’s crucial to build a solid foundation through comprehensive research and background study. This ensures you design a thoughtful experiment and understand the broader context of your work .

Gathering Scientific Literature

Your first step is to collect relevant scientific literature. These range from scholarly articles to textbooks that cover the topic at hand. Be methodical in your search, aiming to attain a representative sample of current knowledge, theories, and methods related to your hypothesis. You might start your journey at Science Buddies , which offers guidance on creating a research plan.

Begin with:

• Scientific databases: Access peer-reviewed papers, abstracts, and citations.
• Public and university libraries: Locate books and journals that might not be available online.
• Credible websites: Find insights on recent developments and supplementary data.

Evaluating Sources

Critical evaluation of your sources is just as important as the gathering process. You need to assess each source’s credibility, relevance, and scientific merit. Prioritize primary sources—those providing raw data or new findings over secondary ones like reviews or opinion pieces.

For this, consider:

• Publication date: Prioritize more recent studies to ensure up-to-date information.
• Author expertise: Check the authors’ credentials and their standing in the scientific community.
• Peer review: Give more weight to publications that have undergone strict peer-review processes.

Remember, a well-researched background study forms the backbone of your project, guiding you from a speculative hypothesis to robust scientific inquiry.

Experimentation

In the experimentation phase of your science fair project, you focus on testing the hypothesis you have formulated. This stage is where your initial ideas are put through a rigorous process to see if they stand up to scientific scrutiny.

Materials and Methods

To begin your experiment, it is crucial to list all materials you will need. This could include lab equipment, chemicals, and other supplies relevant to your project.

• Lab Equipment : Beakers, test tubes, pipettes
• Chemicals : Solutions, reagents
• Supplies : Protective gloves, measuring instruments

Next, outline your methods with step-by-step instructions to ensure repeatability. For instance:

• Measure 50ml of solution A into a test tube.
• Add 5g of substance B and stir.
• Record the reaction every 30 seconds for 5 minutes.

Safety Procedures

Your safety is paramount. Document and follow all necessary safety procedures to mitigate risk:

• Wear safety goggles and gloves at all times.
• Understand how to handle hazardous materials .
• Keep a first aid kit and safety shower accessible.

Data Collection Methods

Effective data collection methods are essential for obtaining reliable results.

• Quantitative data : Use precise instruments like a stopwatch or a scale to collect numerical data.
• Qualitative data : Record observations such as color changes, temperature, or texture.

By adhering to these structured approaches in materials and methods, safety procedures, and data collection methods, you’ll ensure a thorough and credible experimentation process.

Data Analysis

In the context of a science fair project, data analysis is the hinge upon which your conclusions rest. You must scrutinize the gathered data to discern patterns, test your hypothesis, and formulate conclusions.

Interpreting Results

When you look at your data, it’s crucial to interpret what it actually means in relation to your hypothesis. Ask yourself if the results support or contradict your initial prediction. Effective interpretation of results also involves recognizing any anomalies or outliers in your data set. It’s important to consider these irregularities and their potential impact on your findings.

Statistical Analysis Tools

Leveraging statistical analysis tools is fundamental in processing your experimental data. You will often use software or online platforms to calculate statistical metrics such as mean, median, mode, variance, and standard deviation.

For more intricate analyses, tools capable of performing chi-square tests, t-tests, or ANOVA may be necessary to understand if your results are statistically significant. Tools like GraphPad Prism and SPSS are widely utilized by researchers for this purpose.

These tools help you avoid manual calculation errors and provide visualizations like graphs and charts, which are indispensable for a thorough understanding and presentation of your research findings.

Drawing Conclusions

When you reach the end of your science fair project, the conclusions you draw are a critical component of your study. This is where you interpret your data and determine whether they support or contradict your original hypothesis.

Support or Refute the Hypothesis

Your results either confirm or reject the hypothesis you set out to test. To support your hypothesis , present your findings clearly, stating how the evidence backs up your initial prediction.

On the other hand, if your results refute the hypothesis , it’s essential to analyze and communicate the reasons that might have led to these unexpected results. Both outcomes provide valuable scientific insights and contribute to the learning process.

• Clearly state this alignment.
• Describe the data patterns that confirm the hypothesis.
• Present the contradictory evidence.
• Offer a thorough examination of potential reasons.

Reporting Findings

Your findings should be reported concisely, with emphasis on their reliability and relevance to the research question. Present your data in a structured manner, highlighting key figures and trends . Use visual aids such as charts or graphs to improve understanding and provide a straightforward summary of your data. This clear presentation of your findings is crucial for others to follow your scientific reasoning.

• Summarize key results with bullet points or a simple table.
• Incorporate clear visuals like graphs to represent data effectively.
• Maintain a neutral tone, letting the data speak for itself without bias.

Remember, whether your hypothesis was supported or not, the knowledge gained is a stepping stone for further research and understanding.

Preparing the Display Board

When tackling your science fair project, the display board is where your research comes to life. It’s important to make your findings accessible and visually engaging.

Visual Presentation Tips

Contrast: Utilize contrasting colors for text and background to ensure readability from a distance. A standard display board is usually 36 inches tall by 48 inches wide, so your information should stand out clearly.

Text Size: Maintain a font size of at least 16 points for body text, with titles and headings being substantially larger to draw attention.

Images and Graphics: Bring your data to life through the use of graphs, photos, and diagrams. Align these visual elements neatly, balancing them within your content to avoid clutter , but making sure they serve to illustrate your points effectively.

Organizing Information Effectively

Logical Flow: Arrange your information in a sequence that follows the scientific method: question, hypothesis, research, experiment, results, and conclusion. Think of your board as a storyboard narrating your project journey.

Sections: Use distinct sections for each part of the scientific method. Here’s a brief layout you might follow:

• Title: Bold and centered at the top
• Abstract: Brief project summary
• Question: Clearly stated
• Hypothesis: What you proposed to investigate
• Materials and Methods: What you used and did
• Results: Display charts or graphs here
• Conclusion: Summarize findings; were hypotheses supported?

Labels: Clearly label each section. Consider using headers or color-coding to distinguish different parts of your project .

Remember to balance text with visuals and leave some white space to prevent a cluttered appearance. This makes it easier for observers to follow and understand your work.

Presenting the Project

When it’s time to showcase your science fair project, your presentation skills can profoundly impact the perception of your work. It’s essential to communicate your findings effectively and respond to questions with poise.

Oral Presentation Skills

Crafting your oral presentation is pivotal. Begin by creating an outline that includes:

• Introduction to your hypothesis
• Summary of your methodology
• Discussion of the results
• The conclusion that addresses your hypothesis

Use clear language and practice regularly to maintain a steady pace and tone. Visual aids, such as charts or slides, should complement your speech, not overwhelm it. Eye contact and body language convey confidence, which bolsters the credibility of your presentation.

Handling Questions

After presenting, be prepared for questions. Listen carefully to each question, maintain eye contact, and pause briefly to compose your thoughts. Structure your responses with a beginning, middle, and end to stay coherent. If you encounter an unexpected question, it’s acceptable to say, “I don’t have that information right now, but I can find out.” Your honesty in these moments can be just as impressive as your knowledge.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Crafting a hypothesis is a fundamental step for your science fair project that sets the stage for your experiment. Below you will find essential questions answered to guide you through creating and testing your hypothesis effectively.

How do you formulate a testable hypothesis for a science fair project?

To form a testable hypothesis, you need to identify a clear, measurable question or problem, and then predict an answer or solution based on your understanding. It should be structured in a way that defines what you expect to happen and what effect you believe one variable will have on another. For guidance, view strategies for writing a hypothesis .

What are examples of strong hypotheses for elementary level science projects?

Strong hypotheses at the elementary level might involve simple cause and effect relationships that are easily observable. For example, “If a plant is given fertilizer, then it will grow to be bigger than a plant that does not receive fertilizer.” To see more examples, explore writing a hypothesis for beginners .

What steps are involved in testing a hypothesis in a science fair setting?

Testing a hypothesis involves following a structured approach: starting with extensive research, defining dependent and independent variables, conducting a controlled experiment, collecting and analyzing data, and concluding whether the hypothesis is supported or refuted. For an in-depth look at the process, consider the steps of the scientific method .

How can a hypothesis drive the scientific method in a student’s experiment?

A well-constructed hypothesis provides a foundation for the scientific method, guiding your experimental design, data collection, and analysis. It helps you establish the parameters of your study and anticipate possible outcomes. Your hypothesis essentially determines the direction and focus of your experiment.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when crafting a hypothesis for a science fair?

Common mistakes include creating a hypothesis that is not testable, is too broad or vague, or does not have an independent and dependent variable. Your hypothesis should also avoid any bias or subjective language. It is crucial to be as specific and objective as possible.

Can you provide hypothetical scenarios for a successful science fair experiment?

Imagine a scenario where you predict that the type of soil affects plant growth. You could design an experiment with plants in different soil types and measure their growth over a set period. Another scenario could be testing how temperature affects the rate at which sugar dissolves in water, with controlled temperature variations and consistent measurement methods.

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Steps in a Science Fair Project

What are the steps in a science fair project.

• Pick a topic
• Construct an exhibit for results
• Write a report
• Practice presenting

Some science fair projects are experiments to test a hypothesis . Other science fair projects attempt to answer a question or demonstrate how nature works or even invent a technology to measure something.

Before you start, find out which of these are acceptable kinds of science fair projects at your school. You can learn something and have fun using any of these approaches.

• First, pick a topic. Pick something you are interested in, something you'd like to think about and know more about.
• Then do some background research on the topic.
• Decide whether you can state a hypothesis related to the topic (that is, a cause and effect statement that you can test), and follow the strict method listed above, or whether you will just observe something, take and record measurements, and report.
• Design and carry out your research, keeping careful records of everything you do or see and your results or observations.
• Construct an exhibit or display to show and explain to others what you hoped to test (if you had a hypothesis) or what question you wanted to answer, what you did, what your data showed, and your conclusions.
• Write a short report that also states the same things as the exhibit or display, and also gives the sources of your initial background research.
• Practice describing your project and results, so you will be ready for visitors to your exhibit at the science fair.

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Methodology

• How to Write a Strong Hypothesis | Steps & Examples

How to Write a Strong Hypothesis | Steps & Examples

Published on May 6, 2022 by Shona McCombes . Revised on November 20, 2023.

A hypothesis is a statement that can be tested by scientific research. If you want to test a relationship between two or more variables, you need to write hypotheses before you start your experiment or data collection .

Example: Hypothesis

Daily apple consumption leads to fewer doctor’s visits.

Table of contents

What is a hypothesis, developing a hypothesis (with example), hypothesis examples, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about writing hypotheses.

A hypothesis states your predictions about what your research will find. It is a tentative answer to your research question that has not yet been tested. For some research projects, you might have to write several hypotheses that address different aspects of your research question.

A hypothesis is not just a guess – it should be based on existing theories and knowledge. It also has to be testable, which means you can support or refute it through scientific research methods (such as experiments, observations and statistical analysis of data).

Variables in hypotheses

Hypotheses propose a relationship between two or more types of variables .

• An independent variable is something the researcher changes or controls.
• A dependent variable is something the researcher observes and measures.

If there are any control variables , extraneous variables , or confounding variables , be sure to jot those down as you go to minimize the chances that research bias  will affect your results.

In this example, the independent variable is exposure to the sun – the assumed cause . The dependent variable is the level of happiness – the assumed effect .

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Step 1. Ask a question

Writing a hypothesis begins with a research question that you want to answer. The question should be focused, specific, and researchable within the constraints of your project.

Step 2. Do some preliminary research

Your initial answer to the question should be based on what is already known about the topic. Look for theories and previous studies to help you form educated assumptions about what your research will find.

At this stage, you might construct a conceptual framework to ensure that you’re embarking on a relevant topic . This can also help you identify which variables you will study and what you think the relationships are between them. Sometimes, you’ll have to operationalize more complex constructs.

Step 3. Formulate your hypothesis

Now you should have some idea of what you expect to find. Write your initial answer to the question in a clear, concise sentence.

4. Refine your hypothesis

You need to make sure your hypothesis is specific and testable. There are various ways of phrasing a hypothesis, but all the terms you use should have clear definitions, and the hypothesis should contain:

• The relevant variables
• The specific group being studied
• The predicted outcome of the experiment or analysis

5. Phrase your hypothesis in three ways

To identify the variables, you can write a simple prediction in  if…then form. The first part of the sentence states the independent variable and the second part states the dependent variable.

In academic research, hypotheses are more commonly phrased in terms of correlations or effects, where you directly state the predicted relationship between variables.

If you are comparing two groups, the hypothesis can state what difference you expect to find between them.

6. Write a null hypothesis

If your research involves statistical hypothesis testing , you will also have to write a null hypothesis . The null hypothesis is the default position that there is no association between the variables. The null hypothesis is written as H 0 , while the alternative hypothesis is H 1 or H a .

• H 0 : The number of lectures attended by first-year students has no effect on their final exam scores.
• H 1 : The number of lectures attended by first-year students has a positive effect on their final exam scores.

If you want to know more about the research process , methodology , research bias , or statistics , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

• Sampling methods
• Simple random sampling
• Stratified sampling
• Cluster sampling
• Likert scales
• Reproducibility

 Statistics

• Null hypothesis
• Statistical power
• Probability distribution
• Effect size
• Poisson distribution

Research bias

• Optimism bias
• Cognitive bias
• Implicit bias
• Hawthorne effect
• Anchoring bias
• Explicit bias

A hypothesis is not just a guess — it should be based on existing theories and knowledge. It also has to be testable, which means you can support or refute it through scientific research methods (such as experiments, observations and statistical analysis of data).

Null and alternative hypotheses are used in statistical hypothesis testing . The null hypothesis of a test always predicts no effect or no relationship between variables, while the alternative hypothesis states your research prediction of an effect or relationship.

Hypothesis testing is a formal procedure for investigating our ideas about the world using statistics. It is used by scientists to test specific predictions, called hypotheses , by calculating how likely it is that a pattern or relationship between variables could have arisen by chance.

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Do a Science Fair Project!

How do you do a science fair project.

Ask a parent, teacher, or other adult to help you research the topic and find out how to do a science fair project about it.

Test, answer, or show?

Your science fair project may do one of three things:

Test an idea (or hypothesis.)

Answer a question.

Show how nature works.

Topic ideas:

Space topics:.

How do the constellations change in the night sky over different periods of time?

How does the number of stars visible in the sky change from place to place because of light pollution?

Learn about and demonstrate the ancient method of parallax to measure the distance to an object, such as stars and planets.

Study different types of stars and explain different ways they end their life cycles.

Earth topics:

How do the phases of the Moon correspond to the changing tides?

Demonstrate what causes the phases of the Moon?

How does the tilt of Earth’s axis create seasons throughout the year?

How do weather conditions (temperature, humidity) affect how fast a puddle evaporates?

How salty is the ocean?

Solar system topics:

How does the size of a meteorite relate to the size of the crater it makes when it hits Earth?

How does the phase of the Moon affect the number of stars visible in the sky?

Show how a planet’s distance from the Sun affects its temperature.

Sun topics:

Observe and record changes in the number and placement of sun spots over several days. DO NOT look directly at the Sun!

Make a sundial and explain how it works.

Show why the Moon and the Sun appear to be the same size in the sky.

How effective are automobile sunshades?

Study and explain the life space of the sun relative to other stars.

Pick a topic.

Try to find out what people already know about it.

State a hypothesis related to the topic. That is, make a cause-and-effect-statement that you can test using the scientific method .

Explain something.

Make a plan to observe something.

Design and carry out your research, keeping careful records of everything you do or see.

Create an exhibit or display to show and explain to others what you hoped to test (if you had a hypothesis) or what question you wanted to answer, what you did, what your data showed, and your conclusions.

Write a short report that also states the same things as the exhibit or display, and also gives the sources of your initial background research.

Practice describing your project and results, so you will be ready for visitors to your exhibit at the science fair.

Follow these steps to a successful science fair entry!

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Hypothesis Examples

A hypothesis is a prediction of the outcome of a test. It forms the basis for designing an experiment in the scientific method . A good hypothesis is testable, meaning it makes a prediction you can check with observation or experimentation. Here are different hypothesis examples.

Null Hypothesis Examples

The null hypothesis (H 0 ) is also known as the zero-difference or no-difference hypothesis. It predicts that changing one variable ( independent variable ) will have no effect on the variable being measured ( dependent variable ). Here are null hypothesis examples:

• Plant growth is unaffected by temperature.
• If you increase temperature, then solubility of salt will increase.
• Incidence of skin cancer is unrelated to ultraviolet light exposure.
• All brands of light bulb last equally long.
• Cats have no preference for the color of cat food.
• All daisies have the same number of petals.

Sometimes the null hypothesis shows there is a suspected correlation between two variables. For example, if you think plant growth is affected by temperature, you state the null hypothesis: “Plant growth is not affected by temperature.” Why do you do this, rather than say “If you change temperature, plant growth will be affected”? The answer is because it’s easier applying a statistical test that shows, with a high level of confidence, a null hypothesis is correct or incorrect.

Research Hypothesis Examples

A research hypothesis (H 1 ) is a type of hypothesis used to design an experiment. This type of hypothesis is often written as an if-then statement because it’s easy identifying the independent and dependent variables and seeing how one affects the other. If-then statements explore cause and effect. In other cases, the hypothesis shows a correlation between two variables. Here are some research hypothesis examples:

• If you leave the lights on, then it takes longer for people to fall asleep.
• If you refrigerate apples, they last longer before going bad.
• If you keep the curtains closed, then you need less electricity to heat or cool the house (the electric bill is lower).
• If you leave a bucket of water uncovered, then it evaporates more quickly.
• Goldfish lose their color if they are not exposed to light.
• Workers who take vacations are more productive than those who never take time off.

Is It Okay to Disprove a Hypothesis?

Yes! You may even choose to write your hypothesis in such a way that it can be disproved because it’s easier to prove a statement is wrong than to prove it is right. In other cases, if your prediction is incorrect, that doesn’t mean the science is bad. Revising a hypothesis is common. It demonstrates you learned something you did not know before you conducted the experiment.

Test yourself with a Scientific Method Quiz .

• Mellenbergh, G.J. (2008). Chapter 8: Research designs: Testing of research hypotheses. In H.J. Adèr & G.J. Mellenbergh (eds.), Advising on Research Methods: A Consultant’s Companion . Huizen, The Netherlands: Johannes van Kessel Publishing.
• Popper, Karl R. (1959). The Logic of Scientific Discovery . Hutchinson & Co. ISBN 3-1614-8410-X.
• Schick, Theodore; Vaughn, Lewis (2002). How to think about weird things: critical thinking for a New Age . Boston: McGraw-Hill Higher Education. ISBN 0-7674-2048-9.
• Tobi, Hilde; Kampen, Jarl K. (2018). “Research design: the methodology for interdisciplinary research framework”. Quality & Quantity . 52 (3): 1209–1225. doi: 10.1007/s11135-017-0513-8

Related Posts

What is a scientific hypothesis?

It's the initial building block in the scientific method.

Hypothesis basics

What makes a hypothesis testable.

• Types of hypotheses
• Hypothesis versus theory

Additional resources

Bibliography.

A scientific hypothesis is a tentative, testable explanation for a phenomenon in the natural world. It's the initial building block in the scientific method . Many describe it as an "educated guess" based on prior knowledge and observation. While this is true, a hypothesis is more informed than a guess. While an "educated guess" suggests a random prediction based on a person's expertise, developing a hypothesis requires active observation and background research. 

The basic idea of a hypothesis is that there is no predetermined outcome. For a solution to be termed a scientific hypothesis, it has to be an idea that can be supported or refuted through carefully crafted experimentation or observation. This concept, called falsifiability and testability, was advanced in the mid-20th century by Austrian-British philosopher Karl Popper in his famous book "The Logic of Scientific Discovery" (Routledge, 1959).

A key function of a hypothesis is to derive predictions about the results of future experiments and then perform those experiments to see whether they support the predictions.

A hypothesis is usually written in the form of an if-then statement, which gives a possibility (if) and explains what may happen because of the possibility (then). The statement could also include "may," according to California State University, Bakersfield .

Here are some examples of hypothesis statements:

• If garlic repels fleas, then a dog that is given garlic every day will not get fleas.
• If sugar causes cavities, then people who eat a lot of candy may be more prone to cavities.
• If ultraviolet light can damage the eyes, then maybe this light can cause blindness.

A useful hypothesis should be testable and falsifiable. That means that it should be possible to prove it wrong. A theory that can't be proved wrong is nonscientific, according to Karl Popper's 1963 book " Conjectures and Refutations ."

An example of an untestable statement is, "Dogs are better than cats." That's because the definition of "better" is vague and subjective. However, an untestable statement can be reworded to make it testable. For example, the previous statement could be changed to this: "Owning a dog is associated with higher levels of physical fitness than owning a cat." With this statement, the researcher can take measures of physical fitness from dog and cat owners and compare the two.

Types of scientific hypotheses

In an experiment, researchers generally state their hypotheses in two ways. The null hypothesis predicts that there will be no relationship between the variables tested, or no difference between the experimental groups. The alternative hypothesis predicts the opposite: that there will be a difference between the experimental groups. This is usually the hypothesis scientists are most interested in, according to the University of Miami .

For example, a null hypothesis might state, "There will be no difference in the rate of muscle growth between people who take a protein supplement and people who don't." The alternative hypothesis would state, "There will be a difference in the rate of muscle growth between people who take a protein supplement and people who don't."

If the results of the experiment show a relationship between the variables, then the null hypothesis has been rejected in favor of the alternative hypothesis, according to the book " Research Methods in Psychology " (​​BCcampus, 2015). 

There are other ways to describe an alternative hypothesis. The alternative hypothesis above does not specify a direction of the effect, only that there will be a difference between the two groups. That type of prediction is called a two-tailed hypothesis. If a hypothesis specifies a certain direction — for example, that people who take a protein supplement will gain more muscle than people who don't — it is called a one-tailed hypothesis, according to William M. K. Trochim , a professor of Policy Analysis and Management at Cornell University.

Sometimes, errors take place during an experiment. These errors can happen in one of two ways. A type I error is when the null hypothesis is rejected when it is true. This is also known as a false positive. A type II error occurs when the null hypothesis is not rejected when it is false. This is also known as a false negative, according to the University of California, Berkeley . 

A hypothesis can be rejected or modified, but it can never be proved correct 100% of the time. For example, a scientist can form a hypothesis stating that if a certain type of tomato has a gene for red pigment, that type of tomato will be red. During research, the scientist then finds that each tomato of this type is red. Though the findings confirm the hypothesis, there may be a tomato of that type somewhere in the world that isn't red. Thus, the hypothesis is true, but it may not be true 100% of the time.

Scientific theory vs. scientific hypothesis

The best hypotheses are simple. They deal with a relatively narrow set of phenomena. But theories are broader; they generally combine multiple hypotheses into a general explanation for a wide range of phenomena, according to the University of California, Berkeley . For example, a hypothesis might state, "If animals adapt to suit their environments, then birds that live on islands with lots of seeds to eat will have differently shaped beaks than birds that live on islands with lots of insects to eat." After testing many hypotheses like these, Charles Darwin formulated an overarching theory: the theory of evolution by natural selection.

"Theories are the ways that we make sense of what we observe in the natural world," Tanner said. "Theories are structures of ideas that explain and interpret facts." 

• Read more about writing a hypothesis, from the American Medical Writers Association.
• Find out why a hypothesis isn't always necessary in science, from The American Biology Teacher.
• Learn about null and alternative hypotheses, from Prof. Essa on YouTube .

Encyclopedia Britannica. Scientific Hypothesis. Jan. 13, 2022. https://www.britannica.com/science/scientific-hypothesis

Karl Popper, "The Logic of Scientific Discovery," Routledge, 1959.

California State University, Bakersfield, "Formatting a testable hypothesis." https://www.csub.edu/~ddodenhoff/Bio100/Bio100sp04/formattingahypothesis.htm  

Karl Popper, "Conjectures and Refutations," Routledge, 1963.

Price, P., Jhangiani, R., & Chiang, I., "Research Methods of Psychology — 2nd Canadian Edition," BCcampus, 2015.‌

University of Miami, "The Scientific Method" http://www.bio.miami.edu/dana/161/evolution/161app1_scimethod.pdf  

William M.K. Trochim, "Research Methods Knowledge Base," https://conjointly.com/kb/hypotheses-explained/  

University of California, Berkeley, "Multiple Hypothesis Testing and False Discovery Rate" https://www.stat.berkeley.edu/~hhuang/STAT141/Lecture-FDR.pdf  

University of California, Berkeley, "Science at multiple levels" https://undsci.berkeley.edu/article/0_0_0/howscienceworks_19

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How to Write an Effective Hypothesis for a Science Fair Project

By Happy Sharer

Introduction

A scientific hypothesis is a statement that attempts to explain a certain phenomenon or natural occurrence. It is used as the basis for conducting experiments and collecting data in order to prove or disprove its validity. Writing an effective hypothesis for a science fair project requires breaking down the process into several steps. This article outlines the key components of a hypothesis, provides tips for creating a successful hypothesis and explains how to use data to support a hypothesis.

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing an Effective Hypothesis

When writing a hypothesis for a science fair project, there are several steps to follow. The first step is to identify the problem. A clear problem statement will help guide the rest of the process. Once the problem has been identified, formulate a question that can be answered through experimentation. After the question has been formulated, it is time to brainstorm possible explanations for the phenomenon. These explanations will form the basis for the hypothesis. Finally, the hypothesis should be stated in a clear and concise manner.

Components of a Scientific Hypothesis

In order for a hypothesis to be considered valid, it must contain certain components. First, the hypothesis must include both independent and dependent variables. An independent variable is the factor that is being manipulated in the experiment, while a dependent variable is the factor that is being measured. Second, the hypothesis must include operational definitions for each of the variables. Operational definitions are specific descriptions of how each variable is defined and how it will be measured in the experiment.

Creating a Testable Hypothesis

Once the components of the hypothesis have been identified, it is important to make sure the hypothesis is testable. To do this, the hypothesis must be developed further so that it can be tested through experimentation. This involves making predictions about what will happen if the hypothesis is correct. Additionally, it is important to consider any potential confounding variables that may affect the results of the experiment. By taking these factors into account, the hypothesis can be made more testable and accurate.

Benefits of Writing a Clear Hypothesis

Writing a clear and specific hypothesis has a number of benefits. First, it allows for greater clarity when conducting the experiment. This enables the experimenter to focus on the relevant variables and collect the most accurate data possible. Additionally, a clear hypothesis makes it easier to analyze and interpret the data collected during the experiment. This can help to ensure that the results are reliable and accurate.

Using Data to Support Your Hypothesis

Once the experiment has been conducted, it is important to analyze the data collected to determine whether it supports the hypothesis. To do this, it is necessary to collect data that is relevant to the hypothesis. This data should be collected in a systematic manner and recorded accurately. Once the data has been collected, it can be analyzed using various statistical methods to determine whether the hypothesis is supported by the evidence.

Writing an effective hypothesis for a science fair project is a crucial step in the experiment process. It is important to identify the problem, formulate a question, brainstorm possible explanations, and state the hypothesis clearly. Additionally, the hypothesis must include both independent and dependent variables as well as operational definitions. It is also important to make sure the hypothesis is testable and to consider any potential confounding variables. Finally, the data collected during the experiment should be analyzed to determine whether it supports the hypothesis. Following these steps will help to ensure the success of any science fair project.

(Note: Is this article not meeting your expectations? Do you have knowledge or insights to share? Unlock new opportunities and expand your reach by joining our authors team. Click Registration to join us and share your expertise with our readers.)

Hi, I'm Happy Sharer and I love sharing interesting and useful knowledge with others. I have a passion for learning and enjoy explaining complex concepts in a simple way.

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Hypothesis Definition (Science)

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• Ph.D., Biomedical Sciences, University of Tennessee at Knoxville
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A hypothesis is an explanation that is proposed for a phenomenon. Formulating a hypothesis is a step of the scientific method .

Alternate Spellings: plural: hypotheses

Examples: Upon observing that a lake appears blue under a blue sky, you might propose the hypothesis that the lake is blue because it is reflecting the sky. One alternate hypothesis would be that the lake is blue because water is blue.

Hypothesis Versus Theory

Although in common usage the terms hypothesis and theory are used interchangeably, the two words mean something different from each other in science. Like a hypothesis, a theory is testable and may be used to make predictions. However, a theory has been tested using the scientific method many times. Testing a hypothesis may, over time, lead to the formulation of a theory.

• Null Hypothesis Definition and Examples
• Hypothesis, Model, Theory, and Law
• What Is a Testable Hypothesis?
• Scientific Hypothesis, Model, Theory, and Law
• Scientific Method Flow Chart
• What Is a Hypothesis? (Science)
• How To Design a Science Fair Experiment
• Definition of a Hypothesis
• Six Steps of the Scientific Method
• What Are the Elements of a Good Hypothesis?
• Scientific Method Lesson Plan
• What 'Fail to Reject' Means in a Hypothesis Test
• Hypothesis Test for the Difference of Two Population Proportions
• Geological Thinking: Method of Multiple Working Hypotheses
• Null Hypothesis and Alternative Hypothesis

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March 23, 2024

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Orcas covered in scars left by 'cookiecutter sharks' may be new population, study says

by Irene Wright, Miami Herald

A group of killer whales spotted hunting off the coast of California and Oregon over two decades may actually be their own unique population of animals, a new study says.

When the notorious black fin of an orca emerges from the waves, it is almost always followed by another and then another.

The social, family-oriented animals travel in pods, part of larger populations of animals that hunt the same species and circulate the same waters.

But a new study published in the journal Aquatic Mammals suggests there is a group of killer whales that have gone uncategorized by researchers.

"The open ocean is the largest habitat on our planet, and observations of killer whales in the high seas are rare," study author Josh McInnes, a master's student at the University of British Columbia's Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, said in a March 15 news release. "In this case, we're beginning to get a sense of killer whale movements in the open ocean and how their ecology and behavior differs from populations inhabiting coastal areas."

To do this, McInnis and others examined sightings and photographs of 49 different orcas from 1997 to 2021 to see if they had been cataloged in any other existing orca population .

Orcas live in three different ecotypes, or classifications. Resident orcas stay close to the shore and feed primarily on salmon along the west coast of Canada and into the Pacific Northwest of the U.S., the researchers said. Transient orcas also visit coastlines, but they spend some of their time in deeper waters in the northern Pacific, feeding on pinnipeds and cetaceans. Offshore orcas feed on sharks and larger fish in deeper water still, rarely, if ever, coming close to the shore.

The researchers collected examples and evidence of killer whales traveling even further out to sea, miles from the coastline.

When they compared the photos of the animals to known populations, they didn't match, the study said.

The orcas have only been spotted nine times, the researchers said, but it's enough for a "solid hypothesis," according to the release.

They also had odd scarring that doesn't appear on other orcas, the study said.

"A key clue to the new population's presumed habitat range lies in cookiecutter shark bite scars observed on almost all the orcas," according to the release. "This parasitic shark lives in the open ocean, meaning the new population primarily inhabit deep waters far from land."

Cookiecutter sharks attach to the orcas, eventually leaving behind small, circular scars that were observed in photos of the animals.

"In one of the first encounters researchers had with a pod of these oceanic killer whales, they were observed taking on a herd of nine adult female sperm whales , eventually making off with one. It is the first time killer whales have been reported to attack sperm whales on the west coast," McInnes said. "Other encounters include an attack on a pygmy sperm whale, predation on a northern elephant seal and Risso's dolphin, and what appeared to be a post-meal lull after scavenging a leatherback turtle."

The researchers said deep-sea anglers and passengers on ships have made it a "hobby" to try and find the whales, going as far as to buy camera equipment to get better photos of the sightings.

"It's pretty unique to find a new population," co-author and Institute for Oceans and Fisheries professor Andrew Trites said in the release. "It takes a long time to gather photos and observations to recognize that there's something different about these killer whales."

2024 Miami Herald. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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