+23 votes
in Astronomy by
edited by

Your answer

Your name to display (optional):
Privacy: Your email address will only be used for sending these notifications.
+3 votes
by (2.2k points)

There are several lines of evidence that support the round Earth model:

  1. Visual observations: The curvature of the Earth can be observed from various vantage points, such as seeing ships disappear hull-first over the horizon or witnessing the Earth's curved shadow during a lunar eclipse.

  2. Circumnavigation: People have been able to travel around the Earth in different directions, eventually arriving back at their starting point, which is consistent with a spherical shape.

  3. Gravity and mass distribution: The Earth's gravity is consistent with a round shape. The way gravity operates and the distribution of mass on a spherical Earth can explain phenomena such as the direction of falling objects and the shape of the Earth's surface.

  4. Satellite imagery: Images of the Earth taken from space, including those captured by various space agencies and satellites, consistently show a spherical Earth.

  5. Space missions: Astronauts and cosmonauts who have traveled to space have provided firsthand accounts and photographic evidence of the Earth's roundness.

Scientific consensus, supported by a wide range of empirical evidence and experiments, strongly indicates that the Earth is round. The accumulated knowledge and data from multiple fields of study, including physics, astronomy, geology, and space exploration, converge to support the round Earth model.

It's important to note that scientific knowledge is not based solely on personal verification, but rather on the collective efforts of scientists and researchers who rigorously test and validate theories through repeatable experiments and observations. This collaborative process allows us to build a more accurate understanding of the world around us.

Considering the overwhelming evidence, it is reasonable to accept the round Earth model as the current scientific consensus. While individuals are free to question and seek their own understanding, the available evidence strongly supports the round Earth hypothesis, and it is generally accepted by the scientific community.

Welcome to Physicsgurus Q&A, where you can ask questions and receive answers from other members of the community.
...