Question

5. Why did Nicolaus Copernicus wait until late in his

life to publish his theory of a heliocentric universe? (p.
481-482)
He feared criticism from politicians.
He risked punishment by church officials.
He had little money to hire a printer of his work.
He needed to be sure of his mathematical calculations.

Answer 1

Nicolaus Copernicus waited until late in his life to publish his theory of a heliocentric universe due to the risk of punishment, the need for accurate mathematical calculations, and fear of political criticism.

Step-by-step explanation:

Nicolaus Copernicus waited until late in his life to publish his theory of a heliocentric universe for several reasons.

1. He risked punishment by church officials for challenging the widely accepted geocentric model, which placed the Earth at the center of the universe.
2. He needed to be sure of his mathematical calculations, as his theory required complex mathematical equations to accurately describe the motion of celestial bodies.
3. He feared criticism from politicians and wanted to minimize the potential backlash he would face from those in power.

Overall, Copernicus's decision to delay the publication of his theory was influenced by a combination of fear of punishment, the need for precision in his calculations, and concerns about the political climate of the time.

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