collecting data
A Theory is a hypothesis that has withstood testing, but cannot be proven infallibly true, meaning that the only way to form a theory is through scientific testing. Reasoning is necessary to form a hypothesis, which will be considered a theory once tested and supported by the results. Two types of reasoning are Inductive Reasoning and Deductive Reasoning.
Inductive ReasoningMaking observations and extrapolating to come to a conclusion beyond the scope of current information.i.e.
The grass outside is green
therefore
All grass is green
Deductive ReasoningUsing logic to reach a conclusion, specifically when the conclusion necessarily follows the premise(s).i.e.
This mouse is gray
and
All gray mice are fast
therefore
This mouse is fast
Once you have a hypothesis, it can be tested using the Scientific Method.
Scientific MethodIf the results of the experiment support the hypothesis, then it is considered true. If others are able to duplicate the experiment and achieve the same results, the hypothesis will be considered a theory.
inductive
acceleration
When other scientists, or people, test it again to see if its true.
Resistance from air.
evidence