TO MUCH AROUNF IT

Question

You probably believe that the earth is spherical, but as we look around, it certainly appears that the earth is flat. One classmate suggests that if you call someone on the "other side" of the world by phone, they can verify that it is midnight there when it is noon here. Another student reminds you of the picture taken of the spherical earth from the moon landing. Your teacher explains the ancient observation that when the sun was directly overhead on one day near the equator, a pole some hundreds of miles away to the north still cast a shadow. What, then, is the best scientific basis for considering that the earth is spherical?

A, If scientists say it, it must be correct until they determine otherwise.

B, Reasoning must be used to arrive at a model that best fits the observations.

C,  If it is in a science book, it is known to be correct until other observation is agreed upon and published.

D,  The observation that the earth is flat is direct and objective, while all of the other observations are indirect, subjective, or based on extrapolated judgment.

Answer 1

TO MUCH AROUNF IT  <<< Terrible typing for this title!!

 

Since you're in Pacoima, California, you're not too far from the Pacific. Go to the beach and look out to the ocean. Why do ships seemingly disappear as their distance from shore increases?

 

BTW: Earth is baically spherical, but of course it's not a true sphere. There are mountain of varying heights, there are some places below sea level, and in addition thebasic shape is that of an oblate spheroid (fatter at the equator).

 

 

 

 

 

 

Answer 2

If you apply the scientific method, it seems to me the only answer is (B).