Historical Developments in Astronomy

Professor Dave discusses the evolution of astronomy from simple observations to mathematical calculations. He highlights the contributions of ancient Greek scientists like Eratosthenes, who measured Earth's circumference, and Aristarchus, who estimated the moon's size and proposed the heliocentric model. The video emphasizes the importance of revising models based on measurements and predictions.

What is the primary focus of science beyond mere observation?

• Collecting more data

• Finding explanations and making predictions

• Building larger telescopes

• Traveling to other planets

Which philosopher provided logical evidence for Earth's round shape?

• Pythagoras

• Eratosthenes

• Aristotle

• Aristarchus

What method did Eratosthenes use to measure Earth's circumference?

• Observing lunar eclipses

• Measuring shadows at different locations

• Using a telescope

• Calculating star positions

How did Eratosthenes determine the angle of the Earth's sector?

• By measuring the shadow of a tree

• By calculating the distance between two cities

• By observing the sun's position at noon

• By using a compass

What was the estimated circumference of Earth according to Eratosthenes?

• 500 thousand stadia

• 250 thousand stadia

• 100 thousand stadia

• 50 thousand stadia

What did Aristarchus deduce about the Moon's size?

• It is the same size as Earth

• It is twice the size of Earth

• It is about one third the diameter of Earth

• It is larger than Earth

What was Aristarchus' significant proposal about the Sun?

• The Sun is smaller than the Moon

• The Sun is much larger than Earth

• The Sun revolves around Earth

• The Sun is the same size as Earth

What model did Aristarchus propose regarding Earth's movement?

• Earth revolves around the Moon

• Earth is the center of the universe

• Earth revolves around the Sun

• Earth is stationary

What was the dominant model of the universe before the heliocentric model?

• Stellar model

• Heliocentric model

• Geocentric model

• Flat Earth model

What was one of the defining paradigm shifts in the history of astronomy?

• The invention of the telescope

• The shift from geocentric to heliocentric model

• The discovery of new planets

• The measurement of Earth's circumference