Which term best describes a testable prediction, often implied by a theory?

• A. Observation
• B. Experiment
• C. Repetition
• D. Hypothesis

Answer: (D)

A hypothesis is a testable prediction that often follows from a theory. It states what you expect to happen under specific conditions and can be evaluated with data. For example, if a theory suggests that more sunlight boosts plant growth, a hypothesis might be that a plant receiving 6 hours of sunlight each day will grow taller than one receiving 2 hours, assuming water and soil are the same. This kind of statement lets you design observations or experiments to see whether the result supports or refutes it. The key is its testability and potential to be proven false. An observation is simply gathering information, an experiment is the process used to test a hypothesis, and repetition means doing the test again to verify results.