Here's a breakdown:

* Hypothesis: A testable prediction about a relationship between variables. It's often framed as a statement about a difference or effect.

* Null Hypothesis: A statement that there is no relationship between the variables. It's essentially the opposite of the hypothesis, stating that any observed effect is due to chance.

Example:

* Hypothesis: "Drinking coffee improves reaction time."

* Null Hypothesis: "Drinking coffee does not improve reaction time."

The goal of research is usually to gather evidence that supports the hypothesis and rejects the null hypothesis.