ipl-logo

How Did Galileo Contribute To The Measurable Universe?

1809 Words8 Pages

Galileo and his Mathematical-Experimental Method (MEM) generated a new systems way of analyzing the measurable universe. The MEM follows a process that generates a testable hypothesis by isolating numerical elements from certain variables. By utilizing this process, Galileo was able to contribute to the heliocentric theory with his objection from the current understanding of free-falling bodies and how motion within the observable universe functions. This methodology contrasted the Aristotelian process of observational analysis that society had followed and utilized for years. Through his analysis of the principles of inertia, the independence of vector velocities and his theories on relativity, he managed to rebuke current Aristotelian objections …show more content…

This however created debates between the leading philosopher’s and scientists. Aristotle had the geocentric model entrenched into the minds of the public and that the Earth was a static object, without rotation. All motion was generated through either natural or forced motion. Natural motion was centered on the idea that all elements had an either upward or downward motion. Forced motion only occurred when exterior force was exerted on an object. Aristotelian physics made it impossible for the earth to be rotating. Earth would fall to the center (gravity) and fire would float to the celestial bodies (levity) collecting in pockets to create the stars. Air and water would interchange between these two elements. We can observe this through dropping a cannonball off of a tower. If the earth was in rotation, then when the ball is being held, it is being forced along this rotation. Once the ball is released, it would revert back to its natural state of motion, downward. However, the tower would continue with earth’s rotation and by the time the cannonball had hit the ground, the tower would be a distance away. Yet people knew that when we actually observe a cannonball dropping, it doesn’t fly off, but lands at the base of the tower, therefore the earth cannot be

Open Document