Forming Hypotheses
What is a Hypothesis?
A hypothesis is a tentative explanation for an observation or phenomenon that can be tested through further investigation. It's often expressed as an 'if-then' statement that predicts a relationship between variables. A good hypothesis is clear, testable, and based on prior knowledge.
- Provides a potential explanation for observations
- Makes specific, testable predictions
- Based on prior knowledge or observations
- Can be supported or refuted by evidence
- Expressed clearly, often in 'if-then' format
Characteristics of Good Hypotheses
Not all hypotheses are created equal. A good scientific hypothesis should be testable, falsifiable (possible to disprove), specific, and based on existing knowledge. It should also clearly identify variables and their relationships.
Poor hypothesis: 'Plants need light to grow.' (Too vague) Better hypothesis: 'If bean plants are exposed to blue light, then they will grow taller than those exposed to red light.'
Hypotheses vs. Theories vs. Laws
In scientific terms, hypotheses, theories, and laws are distinct concepts. A hypothesis is a testable explanation for a limited set of observations. A theory is a well-substantiated explanation supported by multiple lines of evidence. A scientific law describes an observed pattern without explaining why it occurs.
- Hypothesis: Testable explanation for specific observations
- Theory: Comprehensive explanation supported by extensive evidence
- Law: Description of observed patterns or relationships
- Theories don't 'graduate' to become laws; they explain laws
Summary
Learn how to develop testable hypotheses to guide scientific investigation.
Key Takeaways
- A hypothesis is a testable explanation for observations
- Good hypotheses are falsifiable, specific, and based on prior knowledge
- Hypotheses are often expressed as 'if-then' statements
- Hypotheses, theories, and laws serve different functions in science
Interactive Learning
Hypothesis Builder
Practice creating well-formed hypotheses based on different scientific scenarios.
Connection to Scientific Method
Hypothesis formation follows observation and questioning in the scientific method. A well-crafted hypothesis guides experimentation by making specific predictions that can be tested through controlled studies.
Key Terms
- Hypothesis
- A proposed explanation for an observed phenomenon that can be tested through experimentation.
- Falsifiability
- The quality of a hypothesis that allows it to be proven false by observation or experiment.
- Null Hypothesis
- A statement that there is no relationship between variables or no effect of a treatment.