In chemistry, a hypothesis is a means to help explain phenomena. It is an idea that might explain why something happens. In contrast a theory in chemistry refers to testing this hypothesis by trying to determine what is true about a phenomena.
A hypothesis is used to test why something happens. This is used to help develop the theory. The theory is based upon the truths discovered by testing the hypothesis. A law includes the entire collection of observations. Laws explain things but does not describe them differentiating them from a theory (Lastrucci, 1963) . The scientific process is a natural progression between these different steps. The process starts by developing a hypothesis then with testing the process moves to either the theory or law step (Cohen & Nagel, 1934).
In times were measurements can be uncertain control groups can be created to verify the truths of a study. This usually includes a set of data in which the scientist can rely on for accuracy or has already been verified as a truth. By comparing the other variable to this group one can gain a more accurate representation of how the results compare (Chang, 1994). Sometimes it can be difficult to measure certain factors. In this case, the more measurements take the better the chance of receiving an accurate representation of measurement. All the results should be obtained from the same parameter.
Overall the entire scientific process is helpful in developing a framework for solving problems within the field of chemistry (Ackoff, 1962). Each step is designed to flow smoothly into the next one by answering questions relevant to the original hypothesis.
Works Cited:
Ackoff, R. L. (1962). Scientific method: optimizing applied research decisions.. New York: Wiley.
Chang, R. (1994). Chemistry (5th ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill.
Cohen, M. R., & Nagel, E. (1934). An introduction to logic and scientific method,. New York: Harcourt, Brace and company.
Lastrucci, C. L. (1963). The scientific approach; basic principles of the scientific method.. Cambridge, Mass.: Schenkman Pub. Co..
