What does it mean if a hypothesis is deemed invalid?

An invalid hypothesis is one that fails to be supported by empirical evidence, which is critical in the scientific method. When a hypothesis is formulated, it is typically based on observations and is intended to be tested through experimentation or further observation. If subsequent investigations reveal that the evidence does not support the hypothesis, it is deemed invalid. This means that the hypothesis does not adequately explain the phenomena observed or cannot be substantiated by data collected during the investigation.

In contrast, a hypothesis that relies solely on common sense reasoning lacks the rigor and support of empirical data, and thus may not hold up under scientific scrutiny. Similarly, being discussed in previous investigations or gaining acceptance in the scientific community does not inherently validate a hypothesis. These criteria can reflect the popularity or discourse around a hypothesis, but without empirical support, they do not establish its validity.