Heliocentric
The astronomical model in which the Earth and planets revolve around the Sun
Real World Example
In ancient Greece, the heliocentric model was a revolutionary idea that challenged the prevailing geocentric view, which placed Earth at the center of the universe. Philosophers like Aristarchus of Samos proposed that the Sun was the center, with Earth and other planets orbiting around it. This concept was important because it encouraged scientific inquiry and laid the groundwork for future astronomical discoveries. Today, the heliocentric model is fundamental in understanding our solar system, affecting everything from space exploration to climate studies. For example, understanding Earth's orbit around the Sun helps meteorologists predict seasons and weather patterns, which is crucial for farmers planning when to plant and harvest crops.