The Scientific Revolution

These flashcards cover key concepts and figures from the Scientific Revolution, including the transition from the Ptolemaic model to heliocentrism, advances in scientific methods, contributions from notable figures, and the Revolution's broader impacts.

What were the key contextual factors leading to the Scientific Revolution?

The Italian Renaissance and Age of Exploration contributed to increased lay education, patronage of art, and the need for better navigation.

What did the Ptolemaic model state about the universe?

The Ptolemaic model stated that all motion in the heavens is uniform and circular, the Earth is at the center, and heavenly objects are made from perfect, unchanging materials.

Who challenged the Ptolemaic model and published 'On the Revolutions of the Heavenly Spheres'?

Nicolaus Copernicus challenged the Ptolemaic model with a heliocentric model in his publication of 1543.

What are Kepler's three laws of planetary motion?

1. Planets move in elliptical orbits. 2. Planets do not move at uniform speeds. 3. The time it takes to orbit is related to distance from the sun.

What was Galileo's contribution to the scientific method?

Galileo promoted the experimental method and used inductive reasoning to establish proof through experimentation.

What was Newton's major contribution to physics?

Newton formulated the Law of Universal Gravitation and outlined three laws of motion.

What philosophical approach did Francis Bacon advocate?

Francis Bacon emphasized empiricism, advocating that observation and experience are the best sources of knowledge.

What was the impact of the Scientific Revolution on women?

Women were generally excluded from institutions but made notable contributions, often without receiving credit, such as Margaret Cavendish and Maria Winkelmann.

Who was Maria Winkelmann and what was her achievement?

Maria Winkelmann was an astronomer who discovered a comet but was excluded from the Berlin Academy.

What medical advances occurred during the Scientific Revolution?

William Harvey discovered the circulatory system, and ancient ideas of Galen about the four humors were challenged.

What were some effects of the Scientific Revolution?

The establishment of scientific communities, development of the modern scientific method, and the promotion of reason which questioned authority.