One major contribution of Ptolemy to the development of astronomy was to
A) develop and expand on a mathematical model for the solar system,in which planets move in epicycles around centers that move in circles around Earth.
B) derive a mathematical model for the solar system,in which planets move around the Sun in circular orbits.
C) originate the idea of a geocentric (Earth-centered)cosmology in which planets move in circles around Earth,which was later developed mathematically by Aristarchus.
D) derive a mathematical model for the solar system,in which planets move around Earth in elliptical orbits,moving fastest when closest to Earth.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Ptolemy developed and expanded on a mathematical model known as the Ptolemaic system, in which planets move in epicycles around centers that move in circles around Earth. This became the dominant model for understanding the motion of the planets for over a thousand years until it was replaced by the Copernican system in the 16th century.

One Major Contribution of Ptolemy to the Development of Astronomy