Final answer:
The truth in physics is determined by empirical evidence and experimental validation, leading to the acceptance of gravitational action at a distance. This acceptance came through the successful predictions and reproducible results of Newton's gravitational theory. Therefore, the correct option is a) Empirical evidence; Gravity experiments.
Step-by-step explanation:
The concept of action at a distance, such as gravitational force, challenges intuitive understanding and was historically met with skepticism. However, the ultimate determinant of the truth in physics is empirical evidence and experimental validation. The acceptance of gravity as an action-at-a-distance force was confirmed through reproducible results from experiments and observations, most notably those associated with Newton's Laws of Universal Gravitation.
Newton's formulation of gravity presupposed that there is an instantaneous, invisible force acting between masses, regardless of the distance separating them. This concept initially faced significant resistance because it contradicted the prevailing notion that physical phenomena require direct contact to occur. Yet, as evidence mounted from experiments, such as those conducted by Galileo, and observations of celestial bodies behaving by Newtonian predictions, the scientific community had to revise its understanding of the nature of forces.
Scientific consensus evolved as Newton's laws provided a reliable framework for predicting the motion of objects, both on Earth and in the heavens. Newton's gravitational theory was further solidified through its predictive abilities, for example, in the discovery of new planets based on the gravitational perturbations of known ones. The action-at-a-distance concept was embraced when it was repeatedly shown to correlate with observed phenomena and experimental data. In conclusion, the correct option that highlights the determinant of truth in physics and why action at a distance was ultimately accepted is a) Empirical evidence; Gravity experiments. Empirical evidence affirmed through experimental and observational repeatability underlies the establishment of scientific principles and theories.