Which of the following best describes something that offers a factual basis for belief?

The concept of "evidence" is foundational in various fields, including law enforcement and scientific inquiry. Evidence refers to the information or data that supports a claim or assertion, providing a factual basis for belief. In the context of investigations, for instance, evidence can include physical objects, witness testimonies, and documented records that can be verified. This nature of evidence is crucial because it allows for informed decision-making and reinforces claims with verifiable facts.

In contrast, a hypothesis is a proposed explanation made on the basis of limited evidence as a starting point for further investigation. While it is a significant component of scientific inquiry, it does not inherently provide a factual basis for belief until it is tested and substantiated. Opinions are personal interpretations or beliefs that may not be grounded in factual evidence, making them subjective rather than objective. Assumptions are beliefs or ideas taken for granted without proof, which do not provide a solid foundation as they lack verification.

Thus, evidence stands out as the only option that directly offers a factual basis for belief, making it the correct choice.