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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is true of the relationship between hypotheses and theories in the scientific method?
A
Hypotheses and theories are interchangeable terms in scientific research.
B
A theory is a well-substantiated explanation, while a hypothesis is a tentative idea.
C
A hypothesis is always proven true before it becomes a theory.
D
A hypothesis is a well-substantiated explanation, while a theory is a tentative idea.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the definitions: A hypothesis is a tentative explanation or prediction that can be tested through experimentation and observation. It is often formulated as a statement that can be either supported or refuted by evidence.
Understand the definitions: A theory is a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world that is based on a body of evidence and has stood up to repeated testing and scrutiny. Theories are broader in scope than hypotheses and are supported by a large amount of evidence.
Recognize the relationship: In the scientific method, hypotheses are proposed as initial explanations or predictions that can be tested. If a hypothesis is repeatedly tested and supported by evidence, it may contribute to the development of a theory.
Clarify misconceptions: Hypotheses and theories are not interchangeable. A hypothesis does not become a theory simply by being proven true. Instead, a theory is developed from a collection of related hypotheses that have been tested and supported by evidence.
Identify the correct statement: Based on the definitions and relationships, the correct statement is that a theory is a well-substantiated explanation, while a hypothesis is a tentative idea.