hypothesis vs theory practice

This is the Difference Between a Hypothesis and a Theory

What to Know A hypothesis is an assumption made before any research has been done. It is formed so that it can be tested to see if it might be true. A theory is a principle formed to explain the things already shown in data. Because of the rigors of experiment and control, it is much more likely that a theory will be true than a hypothesis.

As anyone who has worked in a laboratory or out in the field can tell you, science is about process: that of observing, making inferences about those observations, and then performing tests to see if the truth value of those inferences holds up. The scientific method is designed to be a rigorous procedure for acquiring knowledge about the world around us.

In scientific reasoning, a hypothesis is constructed before any applicable research has been done. A theory, on the other hand, is supported by evidence: it's a principle formed as an attempt to explain things that have already been substantiated by data.

Toward that end, science employs a particular vocabulary for describing how ideas are proposed, tested, and supported or disproven. And that's where we see the difference between a hypothesis and a theory .

A hypothesis is an assumption, something proposed for the sake of argument so that it can be tested to see if it might be true.

In the scientific method, the hypothesis is constructed before any applicable research has been done, apart from a basic background review. You ask a question, read up on what has been studied before, and then form a hypothesis.

What is a Hypothesis?

A hypothesis is usually tentative, an assumption or suggestion made strictly for the objective of being tested.

When a character which has been lost in a breed, reappears after a great number of generations, the most probable hypothesis is, not that the offspring suddenly takes after an ancestor some hundred generations distant, but that in each successive generation there has been a tendency to reproduce the character in question, which at last, under unknown favourable conditions, gains an ascendancy. Charles Darwin, On the Origin of Species , 1859 According to one widely reported hypothesis , cell-phone transmissions were disrupting the bees' navigational abilities. (Few experts took the cell-phone conjecture seriously; as one scientist said to me, "If that were the case, Dave Hackenberg's hives would have been dead a long time ago.") Elizabeth Kolbert, The New Yorker , 6 Aug. 2007

What is a Theory?

A theory , in contrast, is a principle that has been formed as an attempt to explain things that have already been substantiated by data. It is used in the names of a number of principles accepted in the scientific community, such as the Big Bang Theory . Because of the rigors of experimentation and control, its likelihood as truth is much higher than that of a hypothesis.

It is evident, on our theory , that coasts merely fringed by reefs cannot have subsided to any perceptible amount; and therefore they must, since the growth of their corals, either have remained stationary or have been upheaved. Now, it is remarkable how generally it can be shown, by the presence of upraised organic remains, that the fringed islands have been elevated: and so far, this is indirect evidence in favour of our theory . Charles Darwin, The Voyage of the Beagle , 1839 An example of a fundamental principle in physics, first proposed by Galileo in 1632 and extended by Einstein in 1905, is the following: All observers traveling at constant velocity relative to one another, should witness identical laws of nature. From this principle, Einstein derived his theory of special relativity. Alan Lightman, Harper's , December 2011

Non-Scientific Use

In non-scientific use, however, hypothesis and theory are often used interchangeably to mean simply an idea, speculation, or hunch (though theory is more common in this regard):

The theory of the teacher with all these immigrant kids was that if you spoke English loudly enough they would eventually understand. E. L. Doctorow, Loon Lake , 1979 Chicago is famous for asking questions for which there can be no boilerplate answers. Example: given the probability that the federal tax code, nondairy creamer, Dennis Rodman and the art of mime all came from outer space, name something else that has extraterrestrial origins and defend your hypothesis . John McCormick, Newsweek , 5 Apr. 1999 In his mind's eye, Miller saw his case suddenly taking form: Richard Bailey had Helen Brach killed because she was threatening to sue him over the horses she had purchased. It was, he realized, only a theory , but it was one he felt certain he could, in time, prove. Full of urgency, a man with a mission now that he had a hypothesis to guide him, he issued new orders to his troops: Find out everything you can about Richard Bailey and his crowd. Howard Blum, Vanity Fair , January 1995

And sometimes one term is used as a genus, or a means for defining the other:

Laplace's popular version of his astronomy, the Système du monde , was famous for introducing what came to be known as the nebular hypothesis , the theory that the solar system was formed by the condensation, through gradual cooling, of the gaseous atmosphere (the nebulae) surrounding the sun. Louis Menand, The Metaphysical Club , 2001 Researchers use this information to support the gateway drug theory — the hypothesis that using one intoxicating substance leads to future use of another. Jordy Byrd, The Pacific Northwest Inlander , 6 May 2015 Fox, the business and economics columnist for Time magazine, tells the story of the professors who enabled those abuses under the banner of the financial theory known as the efficient market hypothesis . Paul Krugman, The New York Times Book Review , 9 Aug. 2009

Incorrect Interpretations of "Theory"

Since this casual use does away with the distinctions upheld by the scientific community, hypothesis and theory are prone to being wrongly interpreted even when they are encountered in scientific contexts—or at least, contexts that allude to scientific study without making the critical distinction that scientists employ when weighing hypotheses and theories.

The most common occurrence is when theory is interpreted—and sometimes even gleefully seized upon—to mean something having less truth value than other scientific principles. (The word law applies to principles so firmly established that they are almost never questioned, such as the law of gravity.)

This mistake is one of projection: since we use theory in general use to mean something lightly speculated, then it's implied that scientists must be talking about the same level of uncertainty when they use theory to refer to their well-tested and reasoned principles.

The distinction has come to the forefront particularly on occasions when the content of science curricula in schools has been challenged—notably, when a school board in Georgia put stickers on textbooks stating that evolution was "a theory, not a fact, regarding the origin of living things." As Kenneth R. Miller, a cell biologist at Brown University, has said , a theory "doesn’t mean a hunch or a guess. A theory is a system of explanations that ties together a whole bunch of facts. It not only explains those facts, but predicts what you ought to find from other observations and experiments.”

While theories are never completely infallible, they form the basis of scientific reasoning because, as Miller said "to the best of our ability, we’ve tested them, and they’ve held up."

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Hypothesis vs. Theory

A hypothesis is either a suggested explanation for an observable phenomenon, or a reasoned prediction of a possible causal correlation among multiple phenomena. In science , a theory is a tested, well-substantiated, unifying explanation for a set of verified, proven factors. A theory is always backed by evidence; a hypothesis is only a suggested possible outcome, and is testable and falsifiable.

Comparison chart

Examples of theory and hypothesis.

Theory: Einstein's theory of relativity is a theory because it has been tested and verified innumerable times, with results consistently verifying Einstein's conclusion. However, simply because Einstein's conclusion has become a theory does not mean testing of this theory has stopped; all science is ongoing. See also the Big Bang theory , germ theory , and climate change .

Hypothesis: One might think that a prisoner who learns a work skill while in prison will be less likely to commit a crime when released. This is a hypothesis, an "educated guess." The scientific method can be used to test this hypothesis, to either prove it is false or prove that it warrants further study. (Note: Simply because a hypothesis is not found to be false does not mean it is true all or even most of the time. If it is consistently true after considerable time and research, it may be on its way to becoming a theory.)

This video further explains the difference between a theory and a hypothesis:

Common Misconception

People often tend to say "theory" when what they're actually talking about is a hypothesis. For instance, "Migraines are caused by drinking coffee after 2 p.m. — well, it's just a theory, not a rule."

This is actually a logically reasoned proposal based on an observation — say 2 instances of drinking coffee after 2 p.m. caused a migraine — but even if this were true, the migraine could have actually been caused by some other factors.

Because this observation is merely a reasoned possibility, it is testable and can be falsified — which makes it a hypothesis, not a theory.

• What is a Scientific Hypothesis? - LiveScience
• Wikipedia:Scientific theory

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Comments: Hypothesis vs Theory

Anonymous comments (2).

October 11, 2013, 1:11pm "In science, a theory is a well-substantiated, unifying explanation for a set of verified, proven hypotheses." But there's no such thing as "proven hypotheses". Hypotheses can be tested/falsified, they can't be "proven". That's just not how science works. Logical deductions based on axioms can be proven, but not scientific hypotheses. On top of that I find it somewhat strange to claim that a theory doesn't have to be testable, if it's built up from hypotheses, which DO have to be testable... — 80.✗.✗.139

May 6, 2014, 11:45pm "Evolution is a theory, not a fact, regarding the origin of living things." this statement is poorly formed because it implies that a thing is a theory until it gets proven and then it is somehow promoted to fact. this is just a misunderstanding of what the words mean, and of how science progresses generally. to say that a theory is inherently dubious because "it isn't a fact" is pretty much a meaningless statement. no expression which qualified as a mere fact could do a very good job of explaining the complicated process by which species have arisen on Earth over the last billion years. in fact, if you claimed that you could come up with such a single fact, now THAT would be dubious! everything we observe in nature supports the theory of evolution, and nothing we observe contradicts it. when you can say this about a theory, it's a pretty fair bet that the theory is correct. — 71.✗.✗.151

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Theories, Hypotheses, and Laws: Definitions, examples, and their roles in science

by Anthony Carpi, Ph.D., Anne E. Egger, Ph.D.

• What is the best definition of the term "theory," as it is used in science? A theory is a guess or hunch about something that has occurred in nature. A theory is a comprehensive set of ideas explaining a phenomenon in nature. A theory is based on verifiable laws and can be proven true. A theory is a hypothesis that uses laws and observation to make an assumption.
• While speaking to a colleague, a scientist makes the following statement: "I propose that Bald Eagle eggs in northern Maine will have thinner shells than those from birds in southern Alaska due to increased levels of pesticides in the water." This statement is a theory law conclusion hypothesis
• Scientific theories can be tested. true false
• Complete the following sentence so that it is correct: Scientific theories are based on general assumptions of how systems work. mathematical principles that can be proven true. large amounts of data collected over time. observations from within only one scientific discipline.
• Why are scientific theories an important part of research and understanding? Scientific theories allow scientists to make predictions. Scientific theories allow scientists to make assumptions. Scientific theories determine the work that future scientists can do. Scientific theories determine the subjects that scientists research.
• Scientific theories do not change once they have been written down. true false
• Which statement below correctly identifies the difference between laws and theories? Laws describe phenomena, while theories explain why phenomena exist. Laws are a statement of fact, while theories are a statement of opinion. Laws explain why phenomena exist, while theories explain how. Laws are a prediction of phenomena, while theories are an explanation.
• Why do scientists develop a hypothesis before conducting research? It gives them direction on how to interpret the results of their research. It helps to predict outcomes and define the parameters of the research. Hypotheses give the researcher an outcome to shape their work around. Hypotheses help a researcher decide which observations to record and which to ignore.
• Scientific theories are always broad and cover many concepts. true false
• Choose the sentence below that is a correct description of scientific theory. Scientific theories in one discipline can influence theories in other disciplines. Theories in one scientific discipline do not affect theories in other disciplines. New scientific theories are always original and do not connect to those that came before. Creativity and insight are not important parts of developing new scientific theories.

Exploring Our Fluid Earth

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Practices of Science: Opinion, Hypothesis & Theory

An opinion is a statement describing a personal belief or thought that cannot be tested (or has not been tested) and is unsupported by evidence. A hypothesis is usually a prediction based on some observation or evidence. Hypotheses must be testable, and once tested, they can be supported by evidence. If a statement is made that cannot be tested and disproved, then it is not a hypothesis. Sometimes it is possible to restate an opinion so that it can become a hypothesis.

A scientific theory is a hypothesis that has been extensively tested, evaluated by the scientific community, and is strongly supported. Theories often describe a large set of observations, and provide a cohesive explanation for those observations. An individual cannot come up with a theory. Theories require extensive testing and agreement within the scientific community. Theories are not described as true or right, but as the best-supported explanation of the world based on evidence.

SF Fig. 7.9. Alfred Wegener first proposed the idea of continental drift.

Image courtesy of Deutsches Dokumentationszentrum für Kunstgeschichte - Bildarchiv Foto Marburg, Wikimedia Commons

German-born geophysicist Alfred Wegener is credited with proposing a hypothesis of continental drift in the late 1800’s, but it was not until the 1960’s that his concept became widely accepted by the scientific community. Part of the problem Wegener faced in presenting his hypothesis of continental drift was that he did not have a sufficient evidence to be able to propose the mechanism of continental movement. Wegener suggested that the continents moved across the ocean floor, but the lack of disturbance on the ocean floor did not support this part of his hypothesis. The elevation of continental drift to the status of a theory came largely from evidence supporting new ideas about the mechanism of plate movement: plate tectonics. It was only over time, as more scientists evaluated and added to Wegener’s original hypothesis, that it became widely accepted as a theory.

• Arc-shaped island chains like the Aleutian Islands are found at subduction zones.
• Dinosaurs were mean animals.
• Mammals are superior to reptiles.
• An asteroid impact contributed to the extinction of dinosaurs.
• Science can answer any question.
• The climate on Antarctica was once warmer than it is now.
• The center of the earth is made of platinum.  
• You have a hypothesis that the land near your school was once at the bottom of the ocean, but due to continental movement, it is now miles inland from any water source. How would you test your hypothesis? What evidence would you use to support your claim?

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1.2: Theories, Hypotheses and Models

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For the purpose of this textbook (and science in general), we introduce a distinction in what we mean by “theory”, “hypothesis”, and by “model”. We will consider a “theory” to be a set of statements (or an equation) that gives us a broad description, applicable to several phenomena and that allows us to make verifiable predictions. For example, Chloë’s Theory ( \(t \propto \sqrt{h}\) ) can be considered a theory. Specifically, we do not use the word theory in the context of “I have a theory about this...”

A “hypothesis” is a consequence of the theory that one can test. From Chloë’s Theory, we have the hypothesis that an object will take \(\sqrt{2}\) times longer to fall from \(1\:\text{m}\) than from \(2\:\text{m}\) . We can formulate the hypothesis based on the theory and then test that hypothesis. If the hypothesis is found to be invalidated by experiment, then either the theory is incorrect, or the hypothesis is not consistent with the theory.

A “model” is a situation-specific description of a phenomenon based on a theory , that allows us to make a specific prediction. Using the example from the previous section, our theory would be that the fall time of an object is proportional to the square root of the drop height, and a model would be applying that theory to describe a tennis ball falling by \(4.2\) m. From the model, we can form a testable hypothesis of how long it will take the tennis ball to fall that distance. It is important to note that a model will almost always be an approximation of the theory applied to describe a particular phenomenon. For example, if Chloë’s Theory is only valid in vacuum, and we use it to model the time that it take for an object to fall at the surface of the Earth, we may find that our model disagrees with experiment. We would not necessarily conclude that the theory is invalidated, if our model did not adequately apply the theory to describe the phenomenon (e.g. by forgetting to include the effect of air drag).

This textbook will introduce the theories from Classical Physics, which were mostly established and tested between the seventeenth and nineteenth centuries. We will take it as given that readers of this textbook are not likely to perform experiments that challenge those well-established theories. The main challenge will be, given a theory, to define a model that describes a particular situation, and then to test that model. This introductory physics course is thus focused on thinking of “doing physics” as the task of correctly modeling a situation.

Emma's Thoughts

What’s the difference between a model and a theory?

“Model” and “Theory” are sometimes used interchangeably among scientists. In physics, it is particularly important to distinguish between these two terms. A model provides an immediate understanding of something based on a theory.

For example, if you would like to model the launch of your toy rocket into space, you might run a computer simulation of the launch based on various theories of propulsion that you have learned. In this case, the model is the computer simulation, which describes what will happen to the rocket. This model depends on various theories that have been extensively tested such as Newton’s Laws of motion, Fluid dynamics, etc.

• “Model”: Your homemade rocket computer simulation
• “Theory”: Newton’s Laws of motion, Fluid dynamics

With this analogy, we can quickly see that the “model” and “theory” are not interchangeable. If they were, we would be saying that all of Newton’s Laws of Motion depend on the success of your piddly toy rocket computer simulation!

Exercise \(\PageIndex{2}\)

Models cannot be scientifically tested, only theories can be tested.

Hypothesis vs. Theory: A Simple Guide to Tell Them Apart

By: Author ESLBUZZ

Posted on Last updated: July 27, 2023

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Hypothesis and theory are no stranger to those who conduct studies and work in science. These two terms are often used interchangeably by non-researchers, but they have distinct meanings in the scientific community. Understanding the difference between a hypothesis and a theory is essential for anyone interested in scientific research or critical thinking.

In this article, we will explore the differences between hypothesis and theory and provide examples to help you understand how they are used in scientific research. We will also discuss the importance of these terms in the scientific method and how they contribute to our understanding of the natural world. Whether you are a student, a researcher, or simply someone interested in science, this article will provide valuable insights into the world of scientific research.

To help illustrate the differences between hypothesis and theory, we will provide a comparison table that summarizes the key differences between these two terms and examples of how scientists use hypotheses and theories to explain natural phenomena and make predictions about future events. By the end of this article, you will have a clear understanding of the differences between hypothesis and theory and how they are used in scientific research.

Hypothesis vs. Theory

Hypothesis vs. Theory: Definitions

Understanding hypothesis.

A hypothesis is an educated guess or assumption that is made before conducting research. It is a tentative explanation for a phenomenon or observation that is based on limited evidence or prior knowledge. In other words, a hypothesis is a statement that proposes a relationship between two or more variables, which can be tested through further investigation.

Characteristics of Hypothesis

Hypotheses have certain characteristics that set them apart from other types of statements. These characteristics include:

• Testable: A hypothesis must be testable through empirical research. This means that it must be possible to collect data that can either support or refute the hypothesis.
• Specific: A hypothesis must be specific in its predictions. It should clearly state what is expected to happen and under what conditions.
• Falsifiable: A hypothesis must be falsifiable, which means that it must be possible to disprove the hypothesis if it is not supported by the evidence.
• Parsimonious: A hypothesis should be simple and straightforward. It should not include unnecessary assumptions or variables.

Examples of Hypothesis

Here are some examples of hypotheses:

• If a plant is exposed to sunlight, then it will grow faster than a plant that is not exposed to sunlight.
• If a person consumes more calories than they burn, then they will gain weight.
• If students are given more time to study for an exam, then they will perform better on the exam.

In summary, a hypothesis is an educated guess or assumption that is made before conducting research. It is testable, specific, falsifiable, and parsimonious. Examples of hypotheses include statements that propose a relationship between two or more variables, which can be tested through further investigation.

Understanding Theory

Definition of Theory

In scientific terms, a theory is a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world that is based on empirical evidence. It is a collection of ideas that have been tested and confirmed through observation and experimentation. A theory is a framework that explains how and why things work in a certain way. It is a set of principles that can be used to make predictions about future events.

Characteristics of Theory

A theory has several characteristics that distinguish it from other scientific concepts such as hypotheses or laws. Some of the key characteristics of a theory are:

• A theory is based on empirical evidence and is supported by multiple lines of evidence.
• A theory is constantly evolving and can be modified or refined as new evidence emerges.
• A theory is generally accepted as true by the scientific community and is widely used to make predictions and guide research.
• A theory is not a guess or a hunch, but a well-substantiated explanation that has been rigorously tested.

Examples of Theory

There are many examples of well-established theories in science. Here are a few examples:

In summary, a theory is a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world that is based on empirical evidence. It is a framework that explains how and why things work in a certain way and is constantly evolving as new evidence emerges. Theories are widely accepted as true by the scientific community and are used to make predictions and guide research.

Hypothesis vs. Theory: The Distinctions

As a writer, it is important to understand the differences between a hypothesis and a theory. These two scientific terms are often used interchangeably, but they have drastically different meanings in the world of science. In this section, we will explore the process of formulation, level of proof, and usage in the scientific community.

Process of Formulation

A hypothesis is an educated guess or assumption made before any research has been done. It is formed so that it can be tested to see if it might be true. Hypotheses are often based on observations or previous research and can be either proven or disproven through experimentation.

On the other hand, a theory is a well-established principle that is formed to explain the things already shown in data. Theories are based on a large body of evidence and have been extensively tested and proven through experimentation. The formulation of a theory requires a lot of research, experimentation, and analysis.

Level of Proof

The level of proof required for a hypothesis and a theory is vastly different. A hypothesis requires a certain level of proof to be considered valid, but it can still be disproven through experimentation. In contrast, a theory has been extensively tested and proven through experimentation, and therefore requires a much higher level of proof to be disproven.

Usage in Scientific Community

In the scientific community, hypotheses and theories play different roles. Hypotheses are used to generate predictions and testable explanations for phenomena, while theories are used to explain and predict a wide range of phenomena. Hypotheses are usually the starting point for research, while theories are the end result of extensive research and experimentation.

To summarize, a hypothesis is an educated guess or assumption made before any research has been done, while a theory is a well-established principle that is formed to explain the things already shown in data. Hypotheses require a certain level of proof to be considered valid, while theories require a much higher level of proof. In the scientific community, hypotheses are used to generate predictions and testable explanations for phenomena, while theories are used to explain and predict a wide range of phenomena.

Hypothesis vs. Theory: Common Misconceptions

When it comes to scientific research, there are several misconceptions about the differences between hypothesis and theory. In this section, we’ll explore some of the most common misconceptions and clarify the differences between these two scientific terms.

Misconception #1: Hypotheses are less important than theories

One common misconception is that hypotheses are less important than theories. This is not true. A hypothesis is the foundation of scientific research, as it is a proposed explanation for an observation or phenomenon. Without a hypothesis, there can be no scientific investigation.

Misconception #2: Hypotheses are guesses

Another common misconception is that hypotheses are guesses. While a hypothesis is an educated guess, it is not a random or arbitrary guess. A hypothesis is based on prior knowledge, observations, and data. It is a proposed explanation that can be tested through experimentation.

Misconception #3: Theories are proven facts

Many people believe that theories are proven facts. This is not true. A theory is a well-substantiated explanation for a set of observations or phenomena. It is based on a large body of evidence and has been repeatedly tested and confirmed through experimentation. However, theories are not absolute truths and are subject to revision or rejection based on new evidence.

Misconception #4: Hypotheses become theories

Some people believe that hypotheses become theories once they are proven. This is not true. A hypothesis can be supported or rejected by experimental evidence, but it does not become a theory. A theory is a broader explanation that encompasses many hypotheses and has been extensively tested and confirmed.

Misconception #5: Theories are more certain than hypotheses

Another common misconception is that theories are more certain than hypotheses. While theories are based on a large body of evidence and have been extensively tested, they are not absolute truths. Theories are subject to revision or rejection based on new evidence, just like hypotheses.

In summary, hypotheses and theories are both important components of scientific research. Hypotheses are proposed explanations that can be tested through experimentation, while theories are well-substantiated explanations that have been extensively tested and confirmed. While there are many misconceptions about the differences between hypotheses vs. theory, understanding these differences is crucial for conducting scientific research.

In conclusion, while the terms “hypothesis” and “theory” are often used interchangeably, they have distinct differences in the scientific method. A hypothesis is an assumption made before any research has been done, formed so that it can be tested to see if it might be true. On the other hand, a theory is a principle formed to explain the things already shown in data.

One way to differentiate between a hypothesis and a theory is to consider the level of evidence supporting each. A hypothesis is a proposed explanation for a phenomenon, but it is not yet supported by sufficient evidence. In contrast, a theory is a well-established explanation for a phenomenon that has been supported by a large body of evidence.

Another way to differentiate between a hypothesis and a theory is to consider their role in the scientific method. A hypothesis is an initial step in the scientific method, where a researcher formulates a testable prediction about a phenomenon. A theory, on the other hand, is the end result of the scientific method, where a researcher has tested and confirmed a hypothesis over time.

It is important to note that a hypothesis can eventually become a theory if it is repeatedly tested and supported by evidence. However, a theory can never become a hypothesis, as it is already a well-established explanation for a phenomenon.

In summary, understanding the differences between hypothesis and theory is crucial for conducting and interpreting scientific research. By using these terms correctly, researchers can communicate their ideas clearly and accurately, contributing to the advancement of scientific knowledge.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can you distinguish between hypothesis and theory?

A hypothesis is an educated guess or a proposed explanation for an observation or phenomenon. It is a tentative explanation that can be tested through experiments and observations. On the other hand, a theory is a well-established explanation that has been supported by a large body of evidence. The main difference between a hypothesis and a theory is that a hypothesis is a proposed explanation that needs to be tested, while a theory is a well-supported explanation that has been tested and confirmed by multiple lines of evidence.

What is the difference between a theory and a hypothesis in biology?

In biology, a hypothesis is a proposed explanation for a biological phenomenon that can be tested through experiments and observations. For example, a biologist might propose a hypothesis to explain why a particular species of bird has a particular beak shape. A theory in biology, on the other hand, is a well-established explanation that has been supported by a large body of evidence. For example, the theory of evolution is a well-established explanation for the diversity of life on Earth.

What is an example of a theory statement?

A theory statement is a statement that summarizes a well-established explanation for a phenomenon. For example, the theory of relativity is a statement that summarizes Einstein’s well-established explanation for the behavior of objects in space and time.

How are hypotheses and theories similar and different?

Both hypotheses and theories are proposed explanations for phenomena. However, while hypotheses are tentative and need to be tested, theories are well-established and have been supported by a large body of evidence. In addition, hypotheses are often specific to a particular observation or phenomenon, while theories are more general and can explain a wide range of phenomena.

What are some examples of the differences between a hypothesis and a theory?

An example of a hypothesis might be that a particular drug will cure a particular disease. An example of a theory might be the theory of plate tectonics, which explains the movement of the Earth’s crust. The main difference between these two examples is that the first is a tentative explanation that needs to be tested, while the second is a well-established explanation that has been supported by a large body of evidence.

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"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What is an example of a theory statement?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"

A theory statement is a statement that summarizes a well-established explanation for a phenomenon. For example, the theory of relativity is a statement that summarizes Einstein's well-established explanation for the behavior of objects in space and time.

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"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Which of these statements best distinguishes between hypotheses and theories?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"

The best way to distinguish between hypotheses and theories is to remember that hypotheses are tentative explanations that need to be tested, while theories are well-established explanations that have been supported by a large body of evidence.

"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What are some examples of the differences between a hypothesis and a theory?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"

An example of a hypothesis might be that a particular drug will cure a particular disease. An example of a theory might be the theory of plate tectonics, which explains the movement of the Earth's crust. The main difference between these two examples is that the first is a tentative explanation that needs to be tested, while the second is a well-established explanation that has been supported by a large body of evidence.

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Know the Differences & Comparisons

Difference Between Hypothesis and Theory

The term ‘hypothesis’ is often contrasted with the term theory which implies an idea, typically proven, which aims at explaining facts and events. Both hypothesis and theory are important components of developing an approach, but these are not same. There exist a fine line of difference between hypothesis and theory, discussed in this article, have a look.

Content: Hypothesis Vs Theory

Comparison chart, definition of hypothesis.

An unproven statement or a mere assumption to be proved or disproved, about a factor, on which the researcher is interested, is called a hypothesis. It is a tentative statement, which is concerned with the relationship between two or more phenomena, as specified by the theoretical framework. The hypothesis has to go through a test, to determine its validity.

In other words, the hypothesis is a predictive statement, which can be objectively verified and tested through scientific methods, and relates the independent factor to the dependent one. To a researcher, a hypothesis is more like a question which he intends to resolve. The salient features of hypothesis are:

• It must be clear and precise or else the reliability of the inferences drawn will be questioned.
• It can be put to the test.
• If the hypothesis is relational, it should state the relationship between independent and dependent variables.
• The hypothesis should be open and responsive to testing within the stipulated time.
• It should be limited in scope and must be clearly defined.

Definition of Theory

An idea or a broad range of ideas that are assumed to be true, which aims at explaining cause and effect relationship between multiple observed phenomena. It is based on hypothesis, which after a thorough analysis and continuous testing and confirmation through observation and experiments, becomes a theory. As it is backed by evidence, it is scientifically proven.

Just like hypothesis, theories can also be accepted or rejected. As more and more information is gathered on the subject, theories are modified accordingly, to increase the accuracy of prediction over time.

Key Differences Between Hypothesis and Theory

The points given below are vital, so far as the difference between hypothesis and theory is concerned:

• Hypothesis refers to a supposition, based on few pieces of evidence, as an inception of further research or investigation. A theory is a well-affirmed explanation of natural phenomena, which is frequently validated through experimentation and observation.
• While the hypothesis is based on a little amount of data, the theory is based on a wide set of data.
• The hypothesis is an unproven statement; that can be tested. On the other hand, the theory is a scientifically tested and proven explanation of fact or event.
• Hypothesis relies on suggestions, prediction, possibility or projects whereas a theory is supported by evidence and is verified.
• The hypothesis may or may not be proved true, so the result is uncertain. On the contrary, the theory is one, that is assumed to be true and so its result is certain.
• Hypothesis and theory are two levels of the scientific method, i.e. theory follows hypothesis and the basis for research is hypothesis whose outcome is a theory.

Both hypothesis and theory are testable and falsifiable. When a hypothesis is proved true, by passing all critical tests and analysis, it becomes a theory. So, the hypothesis is very different from theory, as the former is something unproven but the latter is a proven and tested statement.

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BELLENS MOTEBEJANE says

July 15, 2019 at 2:31 pm

AMAIZING !WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THEORY AND LAW?

February 17, 2022 at 3:47 am

Thanks, I’m finally clear on this for the first time in my life of 65 years

Curtis Le Gendre says

September 14, 2022 at 8:02 am

Great Information

Kenneth says

November 19, 2022 at 2:10 am

I was looking for some takes on this topic, and I found your article quite informative. It has given me a fresh perspective on the topic tackled. Thanks!

Stefanie Banis says

February 9, 2024 at 6:35 pm

Very informative! Thank you! I understand the difference much better now!

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“Theory” vs. “Hypothesis”: What Is The Difference?

Chances are you’ve heard of the TV show The Big Bang Theory . Lots of people love this lighthearted sitcom for its quirky characters and their relationships, but others haven’t even given the series a chance for one reason: they don’t like science and assume the show is boring.

However, it only takes a few seconds with Sheldon and Penny to disprove this assumption and realize that this theory ab0ut The Big Bang Theory is wrong—it isn’t a scientific snoozefest.

But wait: is it a theory or a  hypothesis about the show that leads people astray? And would the actual big bang theory— the one that refers to the beginning of the universe—mean the same thing as a big bang hypothesis ?

Let’s take a closer look at theory and hypothesis to nail down what they mean.

What does theory mean?

As a noun, a theory is a group of tested general propositions “commonly regarded as correct, that can be used as principles of explanation and prediction for a class of phenomena .” This is what is known as a scientific   theory , which by definition is “an understanding that is based on already tested data or results .” Einstein’s theory of relativity and the  theory of evolution are both examples of such tested propositions .

Theory is also defined as a proposed explanation you might make about your own life and observations, and it’s one “whose status is still conjectural and subject to experimentation .” For example:  I’ve got my own theories about why he’s missing his deadlines all the time.  This example refers to an idea that has not yet been proven.

There are other uses of the word theory as well.

• In this example,  theory is “a body of principles or theorems belonging to one subject.” It can be a branch of science or art that deals with its principles or methods .
• For example: when she started to follow a new parenting theory based on a trendy book, it caused a conflict with her mother, who kept offering differing opinions .

First recorded in 1590–1600, theory originates from the Late Latin theōria , which stems from the Greek theōría. Synonyms for theory include approach , assumption , doctrine , ideology , method , philosophy , speculation , thesis , and understanding .

What does hypothesis mean?

Hypothesis is a noun that means “a proposition , or set of propositions, set forth as an explanation” that describe “some specified group of phenomena.” Sounds familiar to theory , no?

But, unlike a theory , a scientific  hypothesis is made before testing is done and isn’t based on results. Instead, it is the basis for further investigation . For example: her working hypothesis is that this new drug also has an unintended effect on the heart, and she is curious what the clinical trials  will show .

Hypothesis also refers to “a proposition assumed as a premise in an argument,” or “mere assumption or guess.” For example:

• She decided to drink more water for a week to test out her hypothesis that dehydration was causing her terrible headaches.
• After a night of her spouse’s maddening snoring, she came up with the hypothesis that sleeping on his back was exacerbating the problem.

Hypothesis was first recorded around 1590–1600 and originates from the Greek word hypóthesis (“basis, supposition”). Synonyms for hypothesis include: assumption , conclusion , conjecture , guess , inference , premise , theorem , and thesis .

How to use each

Although theory in terms of science is used to express something based on extensive research and experimentation, typically in everyday life, theory is used more casually to express an educated guess.

So in casual language,  theory and hypothesis are more likely to be used interchangeably to express an idea or speculation .

In most everyday uses, theory and hypothesis convey the same meaning. For example:

• Her opinion is just a theory , of course. She’s just guessing.
• Her opinion is just a hypothesis , of course. She’s just guessing.

It’s important to remember that a scientific   theory is different. It is based on tested results that support or substantiate it, whereas a hypothesis is formed before the research.

For example:

• His  hypothesis  for the class science project is that this brand of plant food is better than the rest for helping grass grow.
• After testing his hypothesis , he developed a new theory based on the experiment results: plant food B is actually more effective than plant food A in helping grass grow.

In these examples, theory “doesn’t mean a hunch or a guess,” according to Kenneth R. Miller, a cell biologist at Brown University. “A theory is a system of explanations that ties together a whole bunch of facts. It not only explains those facts, but predicts what you ought to find from other observations and experiments.”

So if you have a concept that is based on substantiated research, it’s a theory .

But if you’re working off of an assumption that you still need to test, it’s a hypothesis .

So remember, first comes a hypothesis , then comes theory . Now who’s ready for a  Big Bang Theory marathon?

Now that you’ve theorized and hypothesized through this whole article … keep testing your judgment (Or is it judgement?). Find out the correct spelling here!

Or find out the difference between these two common issues below!

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Hypothesis, Model, Theory, and Law

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In common usage, the words hypothesis, model, theory, and law have different interpretations and are at times used without precision, but in science they have very exact meanings.

Perhaps the most difficult and intriguing step is the development of a specific, testable hypothesis. A useful hypothesis enables predictions by applying deductive reasoning, often in the form of mathematical analysis. It is a limited statement regarding the cause and effect in a specific situation, which can be tested by experimentation and observation or by statistical analysis of the probabilities from the data obtained. The outcome of the test hypothesis should be currently unknown, so that the results can provide useful data regarding the validity of the hypothesis.

Sometimes a hypothesis is developed that must wait for new knowledge or technology to be testable. The concept of atoms was proposed by the ancient Greeks , who had no means of testing it. Centuries later, when more knowledge became available, the hypothesis gained support and was eventually accepted by the scientific community, though it has had to be amended many times over the year. Atoms are not indivisible, as the Greeks supposed.

A model is used for situations when it is known that the hypothesis has a limitation on its validity. The Bohr model of the atom , for example, depicts electrons circling the atomic nucleus in a fashion similar to planets in the solar system. This model is useful in determining the energies of the quantum states of the electron in the simple hydrogen atom, but it is by no means represents the true nature of the atom. Scientists (and science students) often use such idealized models  to get an initial grasp on analyzing complex situations.

Theory and Law

A scientific theory or law represents a hypothesis (or group of related hypotheses) which has been confirmed through repeated testing, almost always conducted over a span of many years. Generally, a theory is an explanation for a set of related phenomena, like the theory of evolution or the big bang theory . 

The word "law" is often invoked in reference to a specific mathematical equation that relates the different elements within a theory. Pascal's Law refers an equation that describes differences in pressure based on height. In the overall theory of universal gravitation developed by Sir Isaac Newton , the key equation that describes the gravitational attraction between two objects is called the law of gravity .

These days, physicists rarely apply the word "law" to their ideas. In part, this is because so many of the previous "laws of nature" were found to be not so much laws as guidelines, that work well within certain parameters but not within others.

Scientific Paradigms

Once a scientific theory is established, it is very hard to get the scientific community to discard it. In physics, the concept of ether as a medium for light wave transmission ran into serious opposition in the late 1800s, but it was not disregarded until the early 1900s, when Albert Einstein proposed alternate explanations for the wave nature of light that did not rely upon a medium for transmission.

The science philosopher Thomas Kuhn developed the term scientific paradigm to explain the working set of theories under which science operates. He did extensive work on the scientific revolutions that take place when one paradigm is overturned in favor of a new set of theories. His work suggests that the very nature of science changes when these paradigms are significantly different. The nature of physics prior to relativity and quantum mechanics is fundamentally different from that after their discovery, just as biology prior to Darwin’s Theory of Evolution is fundamentally different from the biology that followed it. The very nature of the inquiry changes.

One consequence of the scientific method is to try to maintain consistency in the inquiry when these revolutions occur and to avoid attempts to overthrow existing paradigms on ideological grounds.

Occam’s Razor

One principle of note in regards to the scientific method is Occam’s Razor (alternately spelled Ockham's Razor), which is named after the 14th century English logician and Franciscan friar William of Ockham. Occam did not create the concept—the work of Thomas Aquinas and even Aristotle referred to some form of it. The name was first attributed to him (to our knowledge) in the 1800s, indicating that he must have espoused the philosophy enough that his name became associated with it.

The Razor is often stated in Latin as:

entia non sunt multiplicanda praeter necessitatem

or, translated to English:

entities should not be multiplied beyond necessity

Occam's Razor indicates that the most simple explanation that fits the available data is the one which is preferable. Assuming that two hypotheses presented have equal predictive power, the one which makes the fewest assumptions and hypothetical entities takes precedence. This appeal to simplicity has been adopted by most of science, and is invoked in this popular quote by Albert Einstein:

Everything should be made as simple as possible, but not simpler.

It is significant to note that Occam's Razor does not prove that the simpler hypothesis is, indeed, the true explanation of how nature behaves. Scientific principles should be as simple as possible, but that's no proof that nature itself is simple.

However, it is generally the case that when a more complex system is at work there is some element of the evidence which doesn't fit the simpler hypothesis, so Occam's Razor is rarely wrong as it deals only with hypotheses of purely equal predictive power. The predictive power is more important than the simplicity.

Edited by Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D.

• Scientific Hypothesis, Model, Theory, and Law
• Einstein's Theory of Relativity
• What Is a Paradigm Shift?
• Wave Particle Duality and How It Works
• Scientific Method
• Oversimplification and Exaggeration Fallacies
• Kinetic Molecular Theory of Gases
• Understanding Cosmology and Its Impact
• The History of Gravity
• Laws of Thermodynamics
• Tips on Winning the Debate on Evolution
• The Copenhagen Interpretation of Quantum Mechanics
• Geological Thinking: Method of Multiple Working Hypotheses
• The Life and Work of Albert Einstein
• What Are the Elements of a Good Hypothesis?
• Hard Determinism Explained

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Law vs. Hypothesis vs. Theory

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• For Teachers

Law. Hypothesis. Theory. If you're taking a science class, you are going to hear these three words a lot. We were thinking it would be nice if we were all on the same page about what they mean, so we can discuss them at parties and stuff. What? You don't like to talk about science vocabulary at parties? Weird…

Run-In With The Law

Let's start with a scientific law . Scientific laws describe some sort of phenomenon we have observed. Sometimes we'll see them in the form of a mathematical equation, other times not, but we'll always see a boatload of evidence tagging along. The only limitation to a scientific law is that it doesn't explain how the phenomenon works. Bummer.

The Hypothesis: It's More Than An Educated Guess

Up next is the humble hypothesis . A hypothesis is like a testable explanation of stuff we've observed. The fact that it's testable means we can do an experiment to see if our hypothesis was correct. For example, maybe we observed that putting a little salt in our pasta water makes it boil faster. We could totally do an experiment to determine if this is actually true, or if we were just more patient in waiting for our mac n' cheese that day. The evidence we collect from our experiment will support or refute our hypothesis.

A hypothesis is usually focused on explaining something specific. Notice that our salty water hypothesis is just trying to explain one specific phenomenon. We're not trying to explain how atoms move when they're heated or how chemical reactions form new compounds with different boiling points. We save the complex explanations for theories.

Here's A Theory

Theories allow us to explain a broad range of observations and even make predictions. Fancy. Theories aren't born overnight, though. Just like laws, theories come from tons of empirical evidence and experiments whose results have been reproduced over and over and over again. Theories can even take a bunch of hypotheses that have already been supported by scientific evidence and give us a nice, overarching explanation for the lot of them.

Take the atomic theory, for example. It states that everything is made up of these little particles called atoms, which come in different forms called elements. We can use this theory to explain how ice becomes water, how gasoline becomes exhaust, or what in the name of ooze is happening here . Of course, atomic theory is backed up by countless experiments that have produced mountains of evidence to support the fact that we are made of carbon and the atoms in your ice cream are starting to move faster with each second that passes. Better catch that drip.

There's also the theory of evolution. This one explains, using boatloads of evidence from a bunch of different scientific fields, how species have changed over the course of billions of years. If you can turn that explanation into an equation, we'd love to see it, because it is one wildly complex process. Definitely a job for a theory.

The, Er, Evolution of Laws, Hypotheses, and Theories

So, are laws, theories, and hypotheses written in stone? Put your pickaxe away, because the answer is no. That's right, even scientific laws are subject to change. Since we're constantly adding to our scientific knowledge, we also constantly have to make sure those laws, theories, and hypotheses still make sense. Sometimes, they might need a little tweaking, other times they need a major overhaul. Whatever changes are made, just know that scientific evidence is driving them.

Understanding theories, laws, and hypotheses can get confusing. Especially if you don't have Shmoop on your side. One of the biggest uh-oh's people make when it comes to understanding theories, laws, and hypotheses is thinking that they are hierarchical.

What we mean by that is that lots of people think that if we add more evidence, a hypothesis can become a theory, and a theory can graduate into a law. This isn't really the case, though. First of all, laws aren't the boss when it comes to scientific explanations. Scientists actually consider theories to be top dog when it comes to explaining stuff.

Secondly, we use laws, hypotheses, and theories to explain different things. For example, a law explains something specific, usually using a mathematical equation, and is supported by a lot of experiments and evidence. A hypothesis is an explanation for a specific phenomenon that can be tested by an experiment. A theory is an explanation, also supported by lots of experiments and evidence, for a broader concept or set of supported hypotheses.

Comparing these three is sort of like comparing a hippo, a huckleberry, and a housefly. The hippo isn't going to turn into a huckleberry, which certainly isn't going to turn into a housefly. At least not without us having to make some major changes to some pretty important theories.

Brain Snack

The Eridanus Supervoid is a giant (think 1 billion light years across) blotch in space that literally has no stars in it. There is a theory that it's a footprint left behind by a parallel universe. Just think, some student could be reading this exact same thing on a website called POOMHS.com. 10

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• 1. Multiple Choice Edit 1 minute 1 pt A possible explanation to a problem that has not yet been tested.  data theory hypothesis fact
• 2. Multiple Choice Edit 30 seconds 1 pt A broad and comprehensive statement of what is thought to be true; it is supported by much evidence. hypothesis theory guess fact
• 3. Multiple Choice Edit 1 minute 1 pt Kalinda was trying to explain to her friend the difference between a theory and a law in science.  She used the theory of plate tectonics and the law of superposition as examples.  Kalinda explained the difference by using nonscientific language.  Which statement did Kalinda use to correctly describe the difference between a theory and a law in science? A theory describes a natural event, while a law explains it. A theory explains a natural event, while a law predicts it. A theory explains a natural event, while a law describes it. A theory predicts a natural event, while a law explains it.
• 4. Multiple Choice Edit 30 seconds 1 pt An explanation a scientist makes that we can test to see if it is true or not is a _________. hypothesis theory law question
• 5. Multiple Choice Edit 1 minute 1 pt Martha is curious as to what happened to the dinosaurs.  She is convinced that a virus spread across the earth and killed all the dinosaurs.  Martha’s idea is called a ________. hypothesis theory law question
• 6. Multiple Choice Edit 1 minute 1 pt The law of universal gravitation states that both mass and distance of objects affect the gravitational force between them.  Gravitational force increases as the mass of the objects increase.  Gravitational force decreases as distance between the objects increases.  Why are these statements considered scientific law, and not scientific theory? The statements tells what happens, and not why the even occurs. This statement involves mass and distance measurements. This statement explains the attractive force between two objects. This statement predicts what will happen under certain conditions.
• 7. Multiple Choice Edit 1 minute 1 pt Which of the following can be used to test a hypothesis? experiment theory law variable
• 8. Multiple Choice Edit 1 minute 1 pt In 1897, Joseph Thomson discovered that atoms contained electrons.  He proposed a change in the atomic theory of that time, and the theory was modified because of his discovery.  Since Thomson’s discovery, atomic theory has been further modified.  What is the best explanation for why scientific theories are modified? Theories more than ten years old are usually out of date. Scientists want to prove that the work of other scientists is wrong. New evidence that supports a revision prompts scientists to modify earlier theories. So much information is available today that it is harder to focus research and disprove theories.

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