Hypothesis Generation and Testing
Definition
The step in failure analysis where possible causes are listed systematically, then each is tested against the physical evidence and engineering calculations. Hypotheses inconsistent with the evidence are eliminated; the most strongly supported surviving hypothesis becomes the conclusion.
- Field
- Failure analysis / failure investigation
- Step order
- List possible causes, then test each against evidence
- Elimination criterion
- Inconsistency with physical evidence or calculation
- Outcome
- Strongest surviving hypothesis becomes the conclusion
Common questions
Why must every plausible cause be listed before testing begins?+
Skipping straight to a favored explanation risks confirmation bias, where evidence gathering unconsciously targets support for that one cause; a full initial list forces the investigator to actively rule out alternatives rather than only confirm one.
What happens if two hypotheses both survive testing against the available evidence?+
The investigation is treated as inconclusive on that point, or further testing and evidence collection is pursued to discriminate between them, rather than arbitrarily selecting the more convenient explanation.
Related terms
- ASTM E860
- Standard Practice for Examining and Preparing Items That Are or May Become Involved in Criminal or Civil Litigation. Specifies documentation requirements and...
- Destructive Examination
- Testing that consumes or modifies the evidence: sectioning for metallurgical mounts, chemical digestion for composition analysis, mechanical testing to failure. Requires notice...
- Evidence Preservation
- The discipline of maintaining physical evidence in its post-incident condition until all parties have had the opportunity to examine it. Includes both...
- Non-Destructive Examination (NDE)
- Inspection methods that do not alter or consume the evidence: visual inspection, photography, dimensional measurement, dye-penetrant testing, ultrasonic testing, and radiography. NDE...
- Root Cause
- The fundamental, underlying deficiency from which the failure originated. Distinguished from immediate cause (the final physical event) and contributing factors. Root-cause analysis...