Hypothesis

{
  "id": "MLC-T-ENV-013764",
  "term": "Hypothesis",
  "field": "Environment",
  "definition": "1. A proposition set forth as an explanation for a specified phenomenon or group of phenomena.\n\n2. An assumption that requires verification or proof.\n\n3. A specific statement regarding the relationship between two variables. In evaluation research, this typically involves a prediction that the program or treatment will cause a specified outcome. Hypotheses are confirmed or denied based on empirical analysis.\n\n4. A proposed theory concerning a causal relationship; for example, identification of a candidate cause for impairment constitutes a causal hypothesis. Note that these are not statistical hypotheses. See also Hypothesis Testing entry under Causal Concepts.\n\n5. Supposition, arrived at from observation or reflection, that leads to refutable predictions. Any conjecture cast in a form that will allow it to be tested and refuted.",
  "subject": "Policy and guidance",
  "references": [
    "Waste and Cleanup Risk Assessment Glossary",
    "Watershed Protection Glossary",
    "Program Evaluation Glossary",
    "CADDIS Glossary",
    "CDC Epidemiology Glossary"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/environment/hypothesis/"
}