The Circle and Sphere - Why so prevelant in the Universe?

  • Context: Undergrad 
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    Circle Sphere Universe
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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the prevalence of spherical shapes in celestial bodies, such as stars and planets, attributed primarily to gravitational forces described by the inverse-square law (1/r²). Participants highlight that while many objects are modeled as spherical, actual shapes can be more complex, especially at the atomic and biological levels. The conversation also touches on the efficiency of spherical shapes in minimizing surface area for a given volume, as well as the implications of gravity on the formation of these shapes. The consensus suggests that gravity plays a crucial role in shaping astronomical bodies, although exceptions exist in biological systems.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gravitational forces and the inverse-square law (1/r²).
  • Basic knowledge of atomic structure and quantum mechanics.
  • Familiarity with biological systems and their efficiency in nutrient uptake.
  • Concept of surface tension and its effects on shape formation in liquids.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of the inverse-square law in astrophysics.
  • Explore the role of surface tension in the formation of shapes in liquids.
  • Study the differences between atomic models and actual atomic structures.
  • Investigate the efficiency of various shapes in biological systems, focusing on nutrient absorption.
USEFUL FOR

Astronomers, physicists, biologists, and anyone interested in the fundamental principles governing the shapes of celestial and biological structures.

  • #31
DaveC426913 said:
I Learned something recently from my Optician. The vitreous humour serves no anatomical purpose once the eye is formed. It could be drained completely and replaced with saline with no untoward effects.

Yes, but its vital in creating part of the turgor pressure needed to inflate the eyeball, so saying that replacing it with saline solution means that the saline would then provide the turgor pressure. That is certainly an anatomical purpose, unless you want your lens resting on your retina and you enjoy blindness.


@Mapes

Certainly the ball and socket physicality is important and efficient when one's shifts one's gaze upwards or sideways. But the primary reason the eye is spherical has to do with how light is refracted in the lens. We know the lens is not spherical but rather a flattened sphere not dissimilar to the geometry of a magnifying glass. Clearly there must must be space between the lens and retina for the refracted light to converge onto a point on the retina, so a spherical eyeball makes sense.
 

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