Famous People: Nicolaus Copernicus

Learn about Nicolaus Copernicus and why the church had a problem with his heliocentric theory. These sites explain the difference between a geocentric theory and a heliocentric theory. What was the scientific revolution that Copernicus was a part of?

Grades

• 9,
• 10

Links

• Warfare of Science with Theology

  This site provides an explanation about why the church disliked the heliocentric theory.

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• PBS: Scientific Revolution

  Read this definition of the scientific revolution.

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• PBS: Ptolemy's Universe

  See a diagram of Ptolemy's Universe showing earth at the center of the universe. NOTE: This site includes ads.

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• PBS: Copernicus' Universe

  Look at this diagram showing the sun at the center of the universe. Read the explanation of his theory. NOTE: This site includes ads.

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• Understanding the Universe

  Read this article about Copernicus that discusses retrograde motion. NOTE: The site includes ads. NOTE: This site includes ads.

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• ThinkQuest: A Virtual Journey

  This student site explains Ptolemy's theory and the Copernican theory.

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• The Copernican Model: A Sun-Centered Solar System

  This site shows a diagram of the solar system and describes the Heliocentric System.

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• The Heliocentric Theory

  This site shows a diagram and information supporting the heliocentric theory.

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• Nicolaus Copernicus

  Read this short biography on Copernicus.

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• Copernicus

  This biography has illustrations of the famous Polish astronomer.

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• Catholic Encyclopedia: Nicolaus Copernicus

  This site has a biography of Copernicus from the Catholic encyclopedia. NOTE: The site includes ads.

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• The Scientists: Nicolas Copernicus

  Read this biography that also explains Ptolemy's geocentric theory. NOTE: The site includes ads.

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• ThinkQuest: Nickolai Copernic

  Go to the menu at the left and click on "N. Copernic." See pictures of three astronomical tools Copernicus used.

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• The Retrograde Motion of Planets

  Read about the backward motion of some planets. NOTE: This site has links that lead to forums.

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Education Standards

• MO
  • 2.2.E.a
  • 2.2.E.b
  • 2.2.E.c
  • 6.1.A.a
  • 6.2.C.a
  • 6.2.C.b
  • 6.2.C.c
  • 6.2.D.a
  • 8.2.B.a

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Created: November 03, 2005 at 00:00 | Updated: March 26, 2013 at 16:35