Democritus
Background
Democritus was born at Abdera, Thrace, sometime around 458 BC. He enjoyed traveling to places such as Babylon, Egypt, Ethiopia, and India. He spent a lot of his time teaching and writing about philosophical and scientific studies. Of his many theoretical writings only a few remain for a basis of studies.
What did he discover?
Democritus discovered the atomic theory in 5th century BC. He created a theory on atoms and their physical property based on the teachings of Leucippus. His theory was based on the fact that matter was not infinitely divisible. His ideas based off his theory are …
- Matter is composed of empty space through which atoms move.
- Atoms are solid, homogeneous, indestructible, and indivisible.
- Different kinds of atoms have different sizes and shapes.
- The differing properties of matter are due to the size, shape, and movement of atoms.
- Apparent changes in matter result from changes in the grouping of atoms and not from changes in the atoms themselves.
Equipment?
Democritus didn’t use any equipment. He didn’t use microscopes or perform experiments he simply used his imagination and knowledge to base his theory.
Historical
The 5th century was a time period of philosophical brilliance. Many theories and beliefs were discovered during this time period. Among these beliefs were political institutions, art, architecture, and literature. The Persian Wars were fought between the Greeks cities and the Persian Empire. Another war took place when Egypt revolted against Persian rule. Egypt asked for Athens assistance, which was quickly provided because Egypt and Athens had plans to trade and colonize with one another. In Greece, the first Peloponnesian War broke out between the Delian League, which was led by Athens, and Peloponnesian alliance, which was led my Sparta. In the outcome, the Delian League (Sparta) took the victory. In the city of Rome there were problems between Roman patricians and plebians. The slaves in Rome redvolted which caused more problems.
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