If Newton had sat under a coconut tree instead of an apple tree, it is unlikely that there would have been a significant impact on the development of science. While the story of Newton and the falling apple is a popular anecdote associated with his discovery of the law of universal gravitation, it is important to note that the actual process of scientific inquiry and discovery is more complex and involved than a single event or observation.
Newton's formulation of the laws of motion and the law of universal gravitation was a result of years of research, experimentation, and mathematical reasoning. These laws formed the foundation of classical mechanics and greatly influenced the scientific understanding of motion, forces, and the nature of the physical world.
The falling apple incident is often portrayed as a moment of inspiration for Newton, but in reality, it served as a trigger to further explore and develop his ideas about gravity. The apple falling from the tree led Newton to contemplate why objects fall to the ground and to think about the possible universal nature of the force responsible for this motion. However, it was his subsequent extensive investigations and mathematical work that allowed him to develop the mathematical framework and laws that we now attribute to him.
If Newton had sat under a coconut tree instead, it is possible that he might have observed something similar, such as a coconut falling to the ground. The specific object is not as crucial as the thought process, curiosity, and dedication to scientific inquiry that Newton demonstrated. Even if he had observed a falling coconut instead of an apple, it is reasonable to assume that Newton's scientific endeavors and contributions would have unfolded in a similar manner. The discovery of the laws of motion and gravitation would likely have occurred, albeit with a slightly different historical anecdote associated with it.
Science is a cumulative and collaborative enterprise, shaped by the contributions of numerous scientists over time. While individual events and anecdotes can capture our imagination and serve as memorable symbols, the progress of science ultimately relies on a broader foundation of experimentation, observation, reasoning, and the collective efforts of many individuals.