What does the alternative hypothesis state?

The alternative hypothesis is a statement that suggests a potential relationship or effect between variables, positing that there is a meaningful difference or change due to an intervention. When it states that "there is a difference between groups," it indicates that the researcher expects the results to show some variation or impact when comparing the groups in question, often in the context of testing a particular treatment or intervention.

This hypothesis serves as a counter to the null hypothesis, which asserts that there is no difference or effect. By framing the research in terms of the alternative hypothesis, researchers underscore their intent to investigate and demonstrate that their experimental manipulation or treatment has a significant effect worth noting. Therefore, selecting this statement aligns with the fundamental goals of hypothesis testing in research and evidence-informed practice, where one seeks to identify new insights or evidence that could drive decision-making in practice.