Hypothesis
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A hypothesis is a proposed explanation for a phenomenon. A scientific hypothesis must be based on observations and make a testable and reproducible prediction about reality, in a process beginning wit
The hypothesis of Andreas Cellarius, showing the planetary motions in eccentric and epicyclical orbits
Phenomenon
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A phenomenon, sometimes spelled phaenomenon, is an observable event. The term came into its modern philosophical usage through Immanuel Kant, who contrasted it with the noumenon, which cannot be direc
Hypothesis
…A hypothesis (pl.: hypotheses) is a proposed explanation for a phenomenon. A scientific hypothesis must be based on observations and make a testable and reproducible prediction about reality, in a process beginning with an…
The combustion of a match is an observable occurrence, or event, and therefore a phenomenon.
A comparison between a candle flame on Earth (left) and in a microgravity environment, such as that found on the International Space Station (right). See also: Electrical phenomena and Optical phenomena The same burning phenomenon is observed, but different flame shape and colouring phenomena are also observed.
Cloud chamber phenomena. Scientists use phenomena to refine some hypotheses and sometimes to disprove a theory. See also animated version.