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The ancient greek philosopher eratosthenes' method of measuring earth's dimensions using the angles of shadows during the summer solstice. Additionally, it introduces the latitude-longitude system for describing locations on earth, with a focus on the grid lines (parallels and meridians) and their significance in understanding earth's geography.
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observation
the key first step to ALL science driven by curiosity
a process of discovery answer questions
about how the world works
knowledge
improves quality of life
(Egypt, 235 B.C.)
On June 21 (summer solstice), midday sundirectly overhead, shining down a deep well inthe city of Syene (Aswan) Angle of shadow made by sun shining on amonument at midday on June 21 in Alexandriawas
7
o21’
Alexandria lies ~5000 stadia to the north ofAswan (~
500 miles
)
Calculate circumference (
C
) using simple math:
360
o/7.
= C
/500 miles;
C
= 50 x 500 miles =
25,000 miles
Remarkable agreement with actual figure of 24,862 miles
(40,010 km)
a well in Syene^ – WOW.
a shadow cast by a
monument in Alexandria
7
°12' = 7.
°
Everywhere on Earth’s surface:
lat. = 60 nautical miles 1’ lat. = 1 nautical mile
(North Pole)
(Equator)^30
(South Pole)