Difference Between Hypothesis And Theory

Hypothesis is a thought of guess or prediction about something which is curious. it is like saying ‘I think this might happen if I do that’ but it is not yet proven it is called as hypothesis. But in case of Theory it is not a guess or prediction, it is well tested and robust explanation of something based on evidence or experiments, in fact it has a standard of scientific understanding.

Difference Between Hypothesis and Theory

The difference between Hypothesis and Theory is as follows:

Aspects	Hypothesis	Theory
Definition	A Guess or Prediction	A well detailed explanation
Basis	Based in limited knowledge	Based on Proof
Purpose	A starting point for investigation	A comprehensive explanation
Testability	Tested through experiments	Tested through research
Flexibility	Subject to change or rejection	Stable and resistant to change
Level of Confidence	Low confidence level	High confidence level

What is Hypothesis?

A hypothesis is a scientific ‘what if ‘ statement. It is your guess or prediction about something you’re curious about. It is the starting point of the scientific investigation, it is a way to make an informed guess that you can test through experiments and observations. In other words, hypothesis is the first step in unravelling the mysteries of the world.

Examples of Hypothesis

Biology: Hypothesis- ‘If I water this plant every day it will grow taller than the plant I water only once a week’ – this hypothesis explores the cause and effect relationship between watering and frequency and plant growth.

Physics: Hypothesis – ‘Increase the temperature of a gas cause it to expand’ – this hypothesis explores the behavior of gases under changing temperature conditions

Psychology: Hypothesis – ‘Increased access to education will decrease crime rate in community’ – This Hypothesis explores to understand the potential of human emotions

What is Theory?

A theory is not a wild guess, it is a robust and thoroughly tested idea that explains a particular phenomenon. Theory is a combination of evidence, data and experiments. It contains good standard in scientific understanding and is well established.

Examples of Theory

Biology: Theory of Evolution by Natural Selection – This Theory is proposed by Charles Darwin that explains how species change over time through the process of natural selection, here individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce.

Physics: Theory of General Relativity – Albert Einstein’s Theory explains that gravity works by explaining relationship between space, time and presence of mass which leads to bending of light by massive objects.

Psychology: Cognitive Development Theory – Jean Piaget’s Theory explains stages of cognitive development in children, emphasizing how they acquire knowledge, problem solving, thinking skills etc.

FAQs on Difference Between Hypothesis And Theory

1. What is the main difference between a hypothesis and a theory in science?

Answer:

A hypothesis is a guess based on limited evidence and theory is a well substantiated and comprehensive explanation that has extensive testing and research.

2. How do hypotheses and theories evolve in science?

Answer:

Hypotheses can evolve into theories when they are supported by a substantial evidence through repeated experiments and observations.

3. Can a hypothesis become a theory?

Answer:

Yes, a hypothesis can develop into a theory when it contains significant evidence and is widely accepted within the scientific community. The process involves testing and validation.

4. Are hypotheses less important than theories in science?

Answer:

No, both hypotheses and theories play crucial roles in scientific research. Hypotheses initiate investigations and guide experiments, theories provide a deep understanding of natural phenomena based on accumulated knowledge.

5. What happens if a hypothesis is not supported by evidence?

Answer:

If a hypothesis is not supported by evidence from experiments or observations then it is either revised or rejected. This process of testing and modifying hypotheses is essential for scientific progress and accuracy.