Models of the Solar System and Scientific Revolution

What is the geocentric model?

The belief that Earth is the center of the universe.

Who proposed the heliocentric model?

Nicolaus Copernicus in the 16th century.

What does the heliocentric model propose?

That Earth and other planets revolve around the Sun.

What issue did the geocentric model face regarding planetary movement?

Some planets appeared to move backward, known as retrograde motion.

What did Johannes Kepler contribute to the heliocentric model?

He suggested that planets orbit the Sun in elliptical paths instead of circular ones.

Which planets were not included in Kepler's model due to their discovery timing?

Uranus and Neptune.

What significant discoveries did Galileo make using a telescope?

He discovered moons of Jupiter and observed phases of Venus.

How did Galileo's findings impact the perception of the solar system?

They provided evidence that supported the heliocentric model.

Why is Copernicus regarded as a catalyst for the Scientific Revolution?

His heliocentric theory led to a more accurate understanding of planetary motion.

What are the characteristics of the inner planets?

They are smaller, rocky, and closer to the Sun.

Name the inner planets in our solar system.

Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars.

What distinguishes the outer planets from the inner planets?

Outer planets are larger, gas giants, and farther from the Sun.

What happens to temperature as the distance from the Sun increases?

Temperature generally decreases.

Why does Venus have a high temperature despite being an inner planet?

Due to its thick atmosphere and greenhouse effect.

How was the solar system formed?

It formed approximately 4.6 billion years ago from the collapse of a nebula.

What role do asteroids and comets play in the solar system?

They are remnants from the solar system's formation.

How does scientific knowledge change over time?

It evolves with new evidence and modifications through research and updated models.

What was the previous belief about planetary orbits before new evidence was discovered?

They were thought to be circular.

What major comparison is made between geocentric and heliocentric models?

Geocentric is Earth-centered while heliocentric is Sun-centered with elliptical orbits.

What similarities are noted in the comparison of inner and outer planets?

Inner planets are smaller and have shorter orbital periods than outer planets.

What is a conclusion regarding the evolution of our understanding of the solar system?

It has drastically changed due to the contributions of scientists like Copernicus, Kepler, and Galileo.

How have scientists laid the groundwork for modern astronomy?

Through their insights into the structure and motion of the solar system.