Definition:
A hypothesis is a proposed explanation for a phenomenon, or a speculative guess that can be tested through further investigation and experimentation. In the scientific method, a hypothesis serves as a starting point for research, offering a statement that can be either supported or refuted by empirical evidence. It is formulated based on observations and existing knowledge, and it aims to answer a specific question or explain a particular observation.
Etymology & Origin:
The term “hypothesis” comes from the Greek word “hupothesis,” meaning “foundation” or “basis,” derived from “hypo-” (under) and “thesis” (a placing, proposition). It reflects the idea of a hypothesis being an underlying assumption that provides a foundation for further scientific inquiry and exploration.
Examples:
- In biology, a hypothesis might propose a relationship between a specific environmental condition and the behavior of an organism.
- In physics, a hypothesis could suggest a potential outcome of an experiment based on a theory, such as predicting the path of a particle in a collider.
- In psychology, researchers might hypothesize that a particular intervention will have an effect on the mood or behavior of participants, which can then be tested in a controlled setting.
