Which scientist proposed the heliocentric theory, suggesting that the sun is at the center of the universe?

Prepare for your High School World History Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question provides hints and explanations to boost your readiness.

The heliocentric theory, which posits that the sun is at the center of the universe with the planets orbiting around it, was proposed by Nicolaus Copernicus. This groundbreaking idea, introduced in his work "De revolutionibus orbium coelestium" in 1543, marked a significant shift from the long-held geocentric model that placed the Earth at the center of the universe.

Copernicus's theory laid the foundation for modern astronomy by challenging established beliefs and paving the way for further developments by later scientists, including Johannes Kepler and Isaac Newton. By suggesting that the sun, rather than the Earth, was the center of the solar system, Copernicus initiated a revolution in the way humanity viewed its place in the cosmos. His work is considered a pivotal moment in the Scientific Revolution, influencing future thinkers and guiding mankind toward a more accurate understanding of celestial mechanics.

In contrast, Tycho Brahe was known for his precise astronomical observations but maintained a geocentric system with a hybrid model, while Isaac Newton is famous for formulating the laws of motion and universal gravitation, which further explained the orbits of planets but did not propose the heliocentric theory himself. Johannes Kepler, building upon

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