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Heliocentric: meaning, definitions and examples

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heliocentric

 

[ˌhiːlіəʊˈsɛntrɪk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

astronomy model

Heliocentric refers to a model of the solar system in which the Sun is at the center, and the planets, including Earth, revolve around it. This concept contrasts with the geocentric model, which places the Earth at the center. The heliocentric theory was proposed by the ancient Greek philosopher Aristarchus and later advanced by Nicolaus Copernicus in the 16th century. The acceptance of this model marked a significant shift in scientific thinking and contributed to the scientific revolution.

Synonyms

solar-centered, sun-centered.

Examples of usage

  • The heliocentric model changed our understanding of the universe.
  • Galileo's observations supported the heliocentric theory.
  • In a heliocentric system, planets orbit the Sun.
  • The heliocentric perspective improved navigation methods.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term comes from the Greek words 'helios' meaning sun and 'kentron' meaning center.
  • It was first introduced in the 16th century by astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus, changing how we view our place in the universe.

Historical Significance

  • The heliocentric model challenged the long-held geocentric view, which placed Earth at the center, endorsed by Aristotle and Ptolemy.
  • Galileo Galilei provided crucial observational support for the heliocentric theory in the early 17th century by discovering Jupiter's moons.

Science

  • The heliocentric model laid the foundation for modern astronomy, influencing figures like Johannes Kepler and Isaac Newton.
  • It also contributed to the development of laws of planetary motion and gravitational theories that explain why planets orbit the sun.

Cultural Impact

  • The model's acceptance marked a significant shift during the Scientific Revolution, impacting philosophy and religion.
  • It has been referenced in various cultural works, including literature and films, often symbolizing enlightenment and inquiry.

Education

  • Understanding heliocentrism is a fundamental concept taught in science curricula around the world.
  • It emphasizes critical thinking and the importance of evidence in scientific discovery.

Translations

Translations of the word "heliocentric" in other languages:

🇵🇹 heliocêntrico

🇮🇳 सूर्यकेंद्रित

🇩🇪 heliocentrisch

🇮🇩 heliosentris

🇺🇦 геліоцентричний

🇵🇱 heliocentryczny

🇯🇵 太陽中心の

🇫🇷 héliocentrique

🇪🇸 heliocéntrico

🇹🇷 güneş merkezli

🇰🇷 태양 중심의

🇸🇦 مركزي الشمس

🇨🇿 heliocentrický

🇸🇰 heliocentrický

🇨🇳 日心说的

🇸🇮 heliocentričen

🇮🇸 sólmiðjuleg

🇰🇿 күн орталық

🇬🇪 მზისცენტრიული

🇦🇿 günəşyönlü

🇲🇽 heliocéntrico

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,168, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.