Ep 78. Ancient Discoveries: Heron of Alexandria

The Modern Marvels season 11 episode 78 titled "Ancient Discoveries: Heron of Alexandria" explores the life and works of the legendary inventor, mathematician, and engineer, Heron of Alexandria. Heron was a prominent figure in the ancient world and his inventions and discoveries influenced science and technology for centuries to come.

The episode begins with an overview of the city of Alexandria, where Heron lived and worked during the first century AD. The city was a center of innovation, and its famed library is discussed as an important source of knowledge for Heron and other great minds of the time. We are then introduced to the life and work of Heron himself, which is told through a mix of historical reenactments, expert interviews, and animations.

The episode goes on to detail some of Heron's most notable works. We learn about his innovative use of pneumatics, a branch of physics that deals with the mechanical properties of gases, which he used to create a variety of machines and devices. One of the most impressive examples of Heron's use of pneumatics was the creation of the aeolipile, a steam-powered engine that is widely considered to be one of the earliest examples of a steam turbine.

The episode also explores Heron's contributions to the field of mathematics, including his work on geometry, trigonometry, and the development of the first formula for finding the area of a triangle. We hear from experts who discuss the significance of these contributions and how they paved the way for later breakthroughs in mathematics.

In addition to his contributions to pneumatics and mathematics, the episode also covers Heron's work in other areas, such as astronomy and mechanics. We learn about his invention of the odometer, a device used to measure distance traveled, and his use of mirrors to measure the height of tall objects.

Throughout the episode, we hear from experts who discuss Heron's impact on the fields of science and engineering, and how his ideas and inventions have influenced later generations of inventors and engineers. We see examples of modern devices and technologies that are descended from Heron's work, such as the steam engine and the elevator.

Overall, "Ancient Discoveries: Heron of Alexandria" is a fascinating look at the life and work of a pioneering figure in the history of science and technology. It provides a valuable insight into the ways in which ancient discoveries and innovations have shaped the modern world, and how the pursuit of knowledge and advancement has been a constant throughout human history.