Prior to the discovery of atmospheric pressure, the failure of wine to pour from the bottom of a barrel unless an opening was made in the top was explained by:
A) The Empedoclean theory of the four elements.
B) The Aristotelian theory of natural place.
C) The fact that all seventeenth century wine barrels were made from oak.
D) The fact that fermentation produces sediment, which clogs the tap.
E) The principle that nature abhors a vacuum.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The principle that nature abhors a vacuum was historically used to explain phenomena related to air pressure before the concept was fully understood. This principle, dating back to ancient times, was invoked to explain why liquids, such as wine, would not flow out of a container unless air could enter to fill the space left by the liquid.

Prior to the Discovery of Atmospheric Pressure, the Failure of Wine