Question 1)
Two of Kepler’s Laws destroyed perfection in the heavens. Give me each of the two
aspects of perfect motion and for each, tell me which of Kepler’s Laws destroyed it.
Question 2)
Give me one of the arguments used against the sun-centered system of Copernicus,
and then explain why we today don’t accept that argument as valid.
Question 3)
The Greeks were being scientific when they thought about their idea of how the
Universe must be put together because when their idea conflicted with reality, they modified their
idea. The three Es of the Greeks were three of these modifications. List all three, and for each
explain what problem each was trying to fix. [Hint: I’ll normally not do this, but this is the first
homework. In reading this question, please take note that I am NOT asking what each of the 3 Es
were. I’m asking what issue each addressed. A scientist doesn’t make an idea more complicated
unless there is a reason. Tell me about the reasons why the 3 Es were added to the Greek model.]
Question 4)
The motion of the sun is the foundation for our day and the (solar) calendar. But getting a solar
calendar is far from easy. A) First tell me how you can use the sun to tell the time of day. B) Now,
tell me who has/had the need for a solar calendar and why. C) Nomads historically have not used a
solar calendar. Tell me why it would be hard for them to make a solar calendar, as well as why it
wasn’t as necessary compared to the people in part B). D) Tell me one way that you can use the sun to
tell the time of year. E) Finally, what would happen if your culture made a mistake and had the wrong
number of days a year?