A hypothesis is a proposed explanation that leads to a testable prediction. For example: 'Enzyme activity increases with temperature up to an optimum, because molecules collide more often.' From it you can predict what you should measure if the hypothesis is right.
To test it, choose the independent variable and a suitable range and interval, decide how to measure the dependent variable, and identify the control variables. A risk assessment identifies hazards, such as hot water or acids, and how to reduce the risk. If the results do not match the prediction, the hypothesis needs to be changed.
Worked example
Hypothesis: 'Larger canopies fall more slowly because air resistance is greater.' What should be measured?
- The independent variable is the canopy area.
- The dependent variable is the time to fall from a fixed height.
Answer:Measure the fall time for several canopy areas.
Key words
- hypothesis
- a proposed explanation that can be tested
- prediction
- what should happen if the hypothesis is right
- range
- the lowest to highest values of the independent variable
- risk assessment
- identifying hazards and how to reduce them
New questions every time.
NGSS-referenced: HS-ETS1-3