TED-ED: The most groundbreaking scientist you've never heard of - Addison Anderson

Nicolas Steno, a 17th-century scientist, revolutionized geology and anatomy by prioritizing empirical evidence over traditional beliefs. He discovered stratigraphy, laying the groundwork for uniformitarianism, which influenced later geologists like Hutton and Lyell. Steno's insights extended to biology, impacting Darwin's theory of evolution. His legacy emphasizes the pursuit of knowledge beyond current understanding.

What was one of Nicolas Steno's significant contributions to the field of neuroscience?

• He proved that only humans have a pineal gland.

• He developed the theory of relativity.

• He discovered the function of the pineal gland.

• He identified a duct in animal skulls that sends saliva to the mouth.

What did Steno conclude about the 'tongue stones' found in Malta and Florence?

• They were actually shark teeth.

• They were petrified snake tongues.

• They were formed by volcanic activity.

• They were remnants of ancient meteorites.

What concept did Steno's work on rock layers help to establish?

• The theory of relativity

• The law of superposition

• The theory of evolution

• The concept of uniformitarianism

How did Steno's geological findings influence the study of biology?

• They suggested that life on Earth is only 6,000 years old.

• They provided evidence for the extinction of species over time.

• They disproved the theory of evolution.

• They showed that all species have a common ancestor.

Which scientist was influenced by Steno's work and later developed the theory of evolution?

• Isaac Newton

• Albert Einstein

• Gregor Mendel

• Charles Darwin