The difference between a hypothesis and a conclusion lies in their roles within the scientific process. A hypothesis is a potential explanation or prediction formed before conducting experiments; it is testable and serves as a foundation for further inquiry. In contrast, a conclusion is derived after analyzing experimental data, helping to determine whether the hypothesis was supported or refuted. Conclusions summarize the findings and may lead to new questions, advancing scientific understanding. Both elements are crucial for the iterative nature of scientific investigation, contributing to knowledge expansion.