The Theory of Evolution

Hypothesis vs. Theory

In this topic, you will learn quite about about the theory of evolution, including the history of the theory, as well as the evidence that scientists use to develop and study evolution. Earlier in your study of biology, you learned the difference between a hypothesis and a theory. It is important to remember this distinction as you study the widely-discussed theory of evolution.

A hypothesis predicts what is expected to happen in an investigation, and gives a reason why a particular outcome is expected. A theory is a widely accepted explanation supported by multiple sources of evidence and by many tested hypotheses. Theories are broad, and provide a framework for scientists to explain a variety of observations or sets of data.