Define Hypothesis.

A hypothesis is a specific, testable proposition or educated guess that serves as a preliminary explanation for a phenomenon or a set of observations. It is a fundamental component of the scientific method, providing a basis for empirical investigation and forming the starting point for scientific inquiry.

A well-formulated hypothesis typically involves two elements: an independent variable, representing the factor being manipulated or observed, and a dependent variable, representing the outcome or response that is measured. The hypothesis posits a cause-and-effect relationship between these variables, and it is subject to empirical testing through experimentation or observation.

Hypotheses are formulated based on existing knowledge, previous observations, or theoretical frameworks. They guide the design of experiments and help researchers make predictions about the expected outcomes. Importantly, a hypothesis must be falsifiable, meaning that there must be a conceivable way to demonstrate it is incorrect through empirical evidence.

As the scientific process unfolds, hypotheses that are supported by evidence may evolve into theories or models, contributing to the broader understanding of natural phenomena. The formulation and testing of hypotheses are integral to the iterative and self-correcting nature of scientific inquiry.