A scientific theory differs from a scientific hypothesis primarily in terms of their scope, purpose, and level of empirical support. A hypothesis is a tentative, testable prediction or explanation formulated before research, aimed at being tested through observation and experimentation. In contrast, a scientific theory is a well-substantiated, broad explanation of aspects of the natural world that has been repeatedly confirmed through extensive evidence and experimentation. Theories provide comprehensive frameworks explaining why phenomena occur, while hypotheses serve as starting points for investigation and data collection. Theories have greater support and reliability compared to hypotheses, which remain more tentative and subject to change based on experimental results.
