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How did astronomy resolve the issue of the geocentric theory versus the heliocentric theory during the scientific revolution?
Wiki User
∙ 8y ago
First there were several different theories put forward to explain the movements of the planets. The main ones are Ptolemy (geocentric) and then Copernicus (heliocentric). Both theories explained the positions of the planets within the accuracy of the observations that were made at the time (up to the 1580s). Both theories used combinations of circles to model the planets' orbits.
Then Tycho Brahe came on the scene with much improved equipment for measuring the planets' positions with unprecedented accuracy. Although Tycho believed in the geocentric idea, his observations were used by Johannes Kepler to create a new heliocentric theory in which the planets move in elliptical orbits, published in 1609.
At that time there was no way of knowing which theory was right, except that Kepler's theory fitted the observations best.
By the end of the 1600s, scientists had made significant discoveries in dynamics, the science of moving objects, and in gravity. The laws of motion and the law of gravity were used by Isaac newton to prove theoretically that a planet in the Sun's gravity field must move in an elliptical orbit.
This achievement put Kepler's theory in the spotlight, where it has been ever since. Apart from tiny corrections from relativity, Kepler's heliocentric theory is the one still used today.
Wiki User
∙ 8y ago
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Do you use the heliocentric or geocentric model in mosdern astronomy?
Practical science often bases its calculations on geocentricity. For example, astronomers use the rotating "celestial sphere" to represent the apparent motion of stars, etc in the night sky. But this is just a useful device. Modern astronomy is certainly based on the heliocentric model of our solar system.
What was Ptolemy contribution to science?
Ptolemy contributed to science and astronomy by developing the theory of the Earth. He was the first person to view the solar system as a heliocentric system instead of a geocentric system.
What was the positive results of the scientific revolution?
Advancements in Astronomy and physics
What is the main difference between the geocentric and heliocentric molds of planetary motion?
The geocentric model shows earth as the center of the universe. That means everything even the sun revolves around it. That was the theory used in early Greek astronomy. Heliocentric literally means, "sun in the center." That is the way our solar system really is, with everything revolving around the sun. It has been proven by space probes and missions
What theory did Copernicus promote that was in conflict with the teachings of the Catholic Church?
That the universe was heliocentric, not geocentric. He disproved the fact that everything revolved around the Earth (geocentric). Instead he came up with the heliocentric theory; everything revolves around the sun.
Which theory began the Scientific Revolution by questioning the common beliefs about the solar system?
The heliocentric theory questioned the existing belief in the geocentric theory of astronomy. Aside from being an astronomical observation, the heliocentric theory helped people to realize that they are not necessarily the center of the universe, which is an important part of scientific objectivity.
What did Copernicus give to the understanding of astronomy?
Nicolaus Copernicus challenged the geocentric theory and presented the heliocentric theory. The heliocentric system placed the sun at the center of the universe.
Do you use the heliocentric or geocentric model in mosdern astronomy?
Practical science often bases its calculations on geocentricity. For example, astronomers use the rotating "celestial sphere" to represent the apparent motion of stars, etc in the night sky. But this is just a useful device. Modern astronomy is certainly based on the heliocentric model of our solar system.
What is the best scientific discovery?
There is no obvious way to determine which scientific discovery is the best, however, I personally would nominate the heliocentric theory of astronomy.
What was Ptolemy contribution to science?
Ptolemy contributed to science and astronomy by developing the theory of the Earth. He was the first person to view the solar system as a heliocentric system instead of a geocentric system.
What was the positive results of the scientific revolution?
Advancements in Astronomy and physics
What is the main difference between the geocentric and heliocentric molds of planetary motion?
The geocentric model shows earth as the center of the universe. That means everything even the sun revolves around it. That was the theory used in early Greek astronomy. Heliocentric literally means, "sun in the center." That is the way our solar system really is, with everything revolving around the sun. It has been proven by space probes and missions
Which sources of knowledge were most of the scientific revolution?
At the time of the scientific revolution, sources of knowledge dealing primarily with mathematics and astronomy were most often referred to. The scientific revolution began in the mid-1500s.
Which sources of knowledge were most central to the scientific revolution?
At the time of the scientific revolution, sources of knowledge dealing primarily with mathematics and astronomy were most often referred to. The scientific revolution began in the mid-1500s.
4 What kinds of things did the Scientific Revolution produce?
The Scientific Revolution produced the basis of exploration, astronomy, medicine and creation. The revolution was a change in thinking where proof not lore determined conclusions.
Where was the scientfic revolution?
The scientific revolution was a development of mathematics, physics, astronomy and medicine between 1550 and 1700 CE. The scientific revolution took place mainly in Italy, France and England.
What theory did Copernicus promote that was in conflict with the teachings of the Catholic Church?
That the universe was heliocentric, not geocentric. He disproved the fact that everything revolved around the Earth (geocentric). Instead he came up with the heliocentric theory; everything revolves around the sun.
