What is a Hypothesis?
A Foundation of Science
A hypothesis is a cornerstone of the scientific process. It is an idea or explanation that is proposed as a possible answer to a question or a proposed solution to a problem. A hypothesis is based on known facts and evidence, but it has not yet been proven to be true.Key Characteristics of a Hypothesis
A well-formulated hypothesis should:
- Be testable and falsifiable through experimentation or observation
- Provide a clear and specific prediction that can be tested
- Be supported by existing evidence or observations
- Not be a simple guess or speculation
Role in the Scientific Method
Hypotheses are essential in the scientific method. They guide the design of experiments and observations and provide a framework for interpreting the results. By testing and evaluating hypotheses, scientists can refine their understanding of the natural world and gain new insights.Examples of Hypotheses
Here are some examples of hypotheses:
- The speed of light in a vacuum is constant.
- All living organisms are composed of cells.
- Gravity is a force that attracts all objects with mass.
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