Scientific Revolution and Newton's Discoveries The scientific revolution of the 16th-18th centuries, fueled by scientific achievements and experiments, led to a new understanding of nature. Scientists like Copernicus, Kepler, Galileo, Descartes, and Newton made groundbreaking discoveries in astronomy and physics. Isaac Newton's laws of mechanics and theory of universal gravitation revolutionized our knowledge about the motion of planets.
Classification Systems in Biology "Linnaeus", a Swedish naturalist from the 18th century developed the first scientific classification system for plants and animals based on his observations. His work laid the foundation for organizing vast amounts of biological data into categories using Latin names for species. This allowed scientists to study similarities between different organisms.
Advancements in Geographic Discoveries In the 18th century, explorers like Vitus Bering and Alexei Chirikov made significant discoveries, including the Northwest coast of North America and Aleutian Islands. These expeditions by various countries aimed to expand their colonial territories. The exploration of the Pacific Ocean led to important findings about New Zealand and Antarctica.
Scientific Progress in Physics and Chemistry In the 18th century, science became closely linked with practical applications. Notable advancements were made in physics by James Cook's circumnavigations which proved that New Zealand consists of two islands; Benjamin Franklin's invention of lightning rod; Charles Coulomb's contributions to magnetism; Alessandro Volta's creation of galvanic battery revolutionized electricity as an energy source. Chemistry also flourished during this time with Antoine Lavoisier discovering conservation laws for mass during chemical reactions, John Priestley demonstrating plants' absorption of carbon dioxide through photosynthesis influenced by sunlight.
Industrial Revolution: Machinery & Economics The progress in mathematics and experimental sciences laid foundations for inventions that eased human labor or replaced it entirely. In mid-18th century Bernoulli brothers worked on improving water engines near rivers while James Watt invented a universal steam engine between 1764-1784 which played a crucial role in industrial development worldwide. Economics emerged as an independent discipline thanks to Adam Smith who believed that labor is the main source wealth accumulation within society due increased productivity over time. According to Smith, government intervention should be minimal allowing free competition stimulating entrepreneurship leading towards industrialization.