How We Proved Earth Rotates Using a Giant Swinging Ball

The video explores the history and proof of Earth's rotation. Initially, people couldn't perceive Earth's rotation, leading to various theories. Ancient Greeks and later astronomers speculated about Earth's rotation, but it was hard to prove. The Coriolis effect, explained by Riccioli, suggested that moving objects curve due to Earth's rotation. Experiments with towers and pendulums provided evidence, but it was Foucault's pendulum in 1851 that offered a clear demonstration. Foucault's experiment showed Earth's rotation visibly, marking a significant scientific advancement.

How did ancient astronomers explain the movement of stars across the sky?

What was Giovanni Batista Riccioli's contribution to the understanding of Earth's rotation?

What is the Coriolis effect and how does it relate to Earth's rotation?

Describe the method used by scientists to demonstrate Earth's rotation before Foucault's pendulum.

What was the significance of Leon Foucault's pendulum experiment in 1851?

Why was Foucault's pendulum considered a simple demonstration of Earth's rotation?

What were the reactions of the scientific elite to Foucault's discovery?