PBS Space Time Season 2016 Episode 11 Why is the Earth Round and the Milky Way Flat?
- March 16, 2016
Why is the Earth Round and the Milky Way Flat? That's the question explored in the eleventh episode of the 2016 season of PBS Space Time. Beginning with an explanation of why Earth's gravity causes objects to become round, the episode delves into the shape of the Milky Way galaxy and how it is related to our own planet's spherical shape.
The episode features insightful commentary from host Gabe Perez-Giz, who explains the fundamental physics behind gravity. Viewers are provided with a primer on the concept of gravitational pull, and how it makes any object in space with sufficient mass spherical. Gabe discusses how all planets in the solar system, from tiny Pluto to massive Jupiter, are round because of gravity.
The episode emphasizes the role gravity plays in shaping the universe. Gabe explains how the Milky Way, the galaxy in which Earth is situated, is flat. This is due to centrifugal forces created by the rotation of its stars. The result is that the Milky Way ultimately takes on a shape akin to a giant wheel.
Viewers will learn about the ongoing debate within the scientific community about the precise shape of the Milky Way. Is it a flat disk, as it appears, or is its flattened appearance an optical illusion seen from within? Gabe provides a variety of theories and models, including those involving dark matter, that address this question.
Throughout the episode, viewers will notice stunning visualizations of the Milky Way and the universe as a whole. Animations are used to help explain the complex physics at work behind the universe's shape. The visuals serve to support Gabe's explanations while also providing an opportunity for viewers to truly appreciate the wonder of the universe.
In addition to offering an explanation of the universe's shape, the episode also delves into the history of scientific inquiry regarding the shape of the Earth. Gabe explains the longstanding belief among ancient Greeks that the Earth was spherical. The concept of a round Earth was later confirmed by explorers during the age of discovery and the more recent use of satellites.
The show also touches on the potential dangers of living on a planet that is not spherical in shape. Gabe explains how gravity can be affected, leading to uneven distribution of weight and problems with infrastructure. The importance of gravitational pull to our daily lives is made ever more clear by this segment.
Through Gabe's engaging descriptions and dynamic visuals, viewers of Why is the Earth Round and the Milky Way Flat? come away with a greater appreciation of why the universe is shaped as it is. With discussions of the physics behind gravity, the shape of our planet and galaxy, and what this all means for humanity, the episode provides a comprehensive overview of these fascinating concepts.
