Neil Tyson Demonstrates Absurdity of "Flat Earth"
StarTalk・8 minutes read
The Earth is round, supported by scientific evidence like lunar eclipses and shadow angles, contrary to historical flat Earth beliefs, with experiments showcasing the spherical model's validity. Notable figures like Eratosthenes contributed to proving Earth's roundness, as physics principles and observations debunk flat Earth ideas.
Insights
- Experimental verification in the 1600s shifted prevailing beliefs towards the spherical shape of Earth, supported by evidence such as lunar eclipses and Eratosthenes' measurements using wells.
- The observation of ships disappearing over the horizon and the inability to circumnavigate the Earth by walking east provide tangible proof of the planet's roundness, countering earlier flat Earth notions.
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Recent questions
Why do some people believe the Earth is flat?
Lack of experimental verification in the past.
How do lunar eclipses demonstrate Earth's roundness?
Circular shadow cast on the moon.
Who conducted an experiment to measure Earth's curvature?
Eratosthenes.
How does observing ships disappearing over the horizon support Earth's roundness?
Ships disappearing due to curvature.
Why is it impossible to walk due east to circle the Earth?
Contrasts with flat Earth beliefs.
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Summary
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"Earth's Spherical Shape: Debunking Flat Earth Myths"
- Earth is round, unlike what some people believe, with the laws of physics favoring spherical shapes due to the rotation and energy processes.
- The idea of a flat Earth was prevalent before experimental verification became common, with the concept of testing ideas gaining prominence in the 1600s.
- Lunar eclipses demonstrate Earth's roundness, as the shadow cast on the moon is always circular, a characteristic unique to spherical objects.
- Eratosthenes conducted an experiment using wells to measure the curvature of Earth's surface, showcasing the spherical model's ability to explain the angles of shadows.
- Observing ships disappearing over the horizon and the impossibility of walking due east to circle the Earth highlight the spherical nature of our planet, contrasting with flat Earth beliefs.
