explanatory power
Explanatory power refers to the ability of a theory or model to clarify and make sense of a phenomenon. A theory with high explanatory power can account for a wide range of observations and predict outcomes effectively. For example, the theory of evolution explains the diversity of life on Earth by providing a framework for understanding how species adapt and change over time.
In scientific research, explanatory power is crucial for evaluating the usefulness of a hypothesis. A hypothesis with strong explanatory power can integrate various data points and offer insights into underlying mechanisms. This is essential in fields like psychology and physics, where complex systems require robust explanations to advance knowledge.