Answer is: theory.
Theory is a tested,unifying explanation for a set of verified facts.
Theory is a system of explanations that ties together a lot of facts.
Hypothesis is a suggested explanation for an observable phenomenon.
Steps of the scientific method:
1) ask a question about something that is observed.
2) do background research.
3) construct a hypothesis, an attempt to answer questions with an explanation that can be tested.
4) test of hypothesis.
5) analyze collected data and draw a conclusion.
