Judge the following statements as true or false. If you believe a statement to be false, provide a corrected version. (f) A hypothesis is more weakly supported by experimental evidence than a theory.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definitions of 'hypothesis' and 'theory'. A hypothesis is an initial, testable statement or prediction about what might be causing a phenomenon or what might happen in a particular situation. A theory, on the other hand, is a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world that has been repeatedly confirmed through observation and experimentation.
2. Recognize the relationship between a hypothesis and a theory in the scientific method. A hypothesis is typically tested through experimentation, and if consistently supported by evidence, it may contribute to the development of a theory.
3. Acknowledge that a theory is generally broader in scope than a hypothesis and is supported by a larger body of evidence. Theories integrate and generalize many hypotheses that have been supported by evidence, providing an overarching explanation.
4. Evaluate the statement based on these definitions and relationships. The statement suggests that a hypothesis is more weakly supported by experimental evidence than a theory, which aligns with the understanding that a theory is a more comprehensive and confirmed explanation.
5. Conclude that the statement is true. A hypothesis is indeed more weakly supported by experimental evidence than a theory, as a theory is an established framework that explains a phenomenon based on extensive and repeated experimental support.

Key Concepts

Hypothesis vs. Theory

A hypothesis is a testable prediction about the relationship between variables, often based on limited evidence. In contrast, a theory is a well-substantiated explanation of an aspect of the natural world, supported by a body of evidence and repeated testing. The distinction lies in the level of support and validation, with theories being more robust than hypotheses.

Scientific Method

The scientific method is a systematic approach to inquiry that involves making observations, forming hypotheses, conducting experiments, and drawing conclusions. This process allows scientists to test hypotheses and develop theories based on empirical evidence. Understanding this method is crucial for evaluating the strength of scientific claims.

Evidence in Science

In scientific research, evidence refers to the data and observations collected through experiments and studies that support or refute a hypothesis or theory. The strength of a hypothesis is determined by the quality and quantity of evidence available, with a well-supported hypothesis potentially evolving into a theory if it withstands rigorous testing.