Most scientists in the early 1600s believed that the planets of our solar system followed circular orbits. This was largely due to the influence of the ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle and the Ptolemaic model, which favored circular motion as perfect and natural. It wasn't until Johannes Kepler's work, published in 1609, that the concept of elliptical orbits was introduced, fundamentally changing our understanding of planetary motion.
Which orbital shape did most scientists in the early 1600s think the planets of our solar systems have?
parabolic
elliptical
hyperbolic
circular
1 answer