Which term describes a tentative explanation that can be tested by experiments?

• A. Theory
• B. Law
• C. Hypothesis
• D. Fact

Answer: (C)

A hypothesis is a tentative explanation that can be tested by experiments. It makes a specific prediction about how variables relate, so you can measure outcomes and see if the data support or contradict it. This is what sets it apart: it’s a testable claim you can gather evidence for or against.

In contrast, a theory is a well-supported, broad explanation of many phenomena, a law describes a consistent relationship that holds under certain conditions (often expressed mathematically), and a fact is an observed truth. So the statement that can be tested through experimentation is the hypothesis. For example, “If a plant receives more light, its rate of photosynthesis increases” is a testable prediction you can investigate with experiments.