Concept explainers
Briefly summarize the evidence, both real and imagined, that had led to widespread belief in a martian civilization by the end of the nineteenth century.
The real and imaginary evidences that led to widespread belief in Martian civilization.
Answer to Problem 1RQ
The real evidences included the presence of polar ice caps, canals and days on duration of 24 hours 37 minutes while the use of canals for irrigation suggested by Lowell and presence of inhabitants on mars by Hershel were imaginary claims.
Explanation of Solution
There were multiple real and imaginary theories proposed by the astronomers. The first real theory was proposed by William Hershel that the mars have a day of 24 hours 37 minutes and also noticed that the mars polar caps have ice on them which were discovered by the telescope. All these theory came out to be real evidence regarding mars. However, Hershel’s comment regarding presence of inhabitants on mars came out to be imaginary.
Giovanni Schiaparelli and Percival Lowell suggested presence of canals on the surface of mars. While Lowell’s suggesting the presence of long canals which are used for irrigation near the equator was an imaginary evidences. As a result most of the theories suggested by Lowell were based on his imaginations rather than on facts and observations. Most of the scientists were unable to see any pictures or observation through telescope which could confirm Lowell’s theory.
However, Schiaparelli and Percival Lowell suggesting presence of canals on the surface of mars were real to a great extent.
Conclusion:
Thus, the real evidences included the presence of polar ice caps, canals and days on duration of 24 hours 37 minutes while the use of canals for irrigation suggested by Lowell and presence of inhabitants on mars by Hershel were imaginary claims.
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