- #1
chewy11577
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Homework Statement
Can you prove the Earth is round by mathematical equation?
Prove Earth is Round: Math Equation
- Thread starter chewy11577
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Homework Help Overview
The discussion revolves around the question of whether the Earth can be proven to be round through mathematical equations. Participants explore the relationship between mathematical reasoning and physical observations regarding the shape of the Earth.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification
Approaches and Questions Raised
- Some participants question the validity of the homework question itself and the need for specific sections to be filled out. Others express skepticism about proving the Earth's shape mathematically, suggesting that physical observations are necessary. There are discussions about the definitions of "round" and whether the Earth is better described as an oblate spheroid. Participants also mention mathematical formulas related to the surface area of a sphere and their applicability to the Earth's actual shape.
Discussion Status
The discussion is ongoing with various interpretations being explored. Some participants provide guidance on the need for physical evidence, while others challenge the assumptions behind the question. There is no explicit consensus on the matter, and multiple perspectives are being considered.
Contextual Notes
Participants note ambiguities in the definitions used, such as "round," and the implications of the Earth's shape being described as an oblate spheroid. There are also references to homework posting guidelines that may not have been followed.
Can you prove the Earth is round by mathematical equation?
- #2
cristo
Staff Emeritus
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Is this really a homework question? If so, you should fill in sections 2 and 3 of the homework posting template.
- #3
Dick
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chewy11577 said:
Obviously not. The Earth being flat is not inconsistent with mathematics. You have to make a physical observation.
- #4
Feldoh
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Dick said:
Define "round" it's sort of ambiguous
- #5
Defennder
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Spherical?
- #6
Gear300
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chewy11577 said:
The Earth is actually closer to an oblate spheroid (if I have it right)...yes, this can be shown mathematically.
- #7
stewartcs
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chewy11577 said:
Probably not since the Earth is not round.
It has a buldge at the equator...too many donuts.
CS
- #8
black_squirrel
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yea use the formula for the surface area of a sphere 4pi*r2. Then compare it to the actual surface area of the earth. you will see that the numbers do not match proving Earth is flat :D
- #9
Alex6200
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Put simply one could observe that it is possible to circumnavigate the globe, or leave the Earth in a spaceship without seeing the edge. It's not difficult.
And yes, you can't prove that the Earth is round through mathematics, you have to show an observation.
And yes, you can't prove that the Earth is round through mathematics, you have to show an observation.
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