How did the sailors find out that the earth is round ?
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer:
Sailors found out that the Earth is round through careful observation of natural phenomena during their voyages, such as the way ships disappeared over the horizon, changes in the positions of stars, and the ability to circumnavigate the globe.
Explanation:
Throughout history, various observations made during sea travel led sailors to the conclusion that the Earth is round. One of the most compelling pieces of evidence came from the way ships disappeared from view as they sailed away. Instead of shrinking uniformly, ships appeared to sink hull-first, with the mast being the last part seen. This observation could only be explained if the Earth’s surface was curved, not flat. On a flat Earth, ships would remain entirely visible, simply appearing smaller as they moved farther away.
Another important clue came from the stars. As sailors traveled north or south, they noticed that different constellations became visible, and familiar stars changed their positions in the sky. For example, the North Star (Polaris) appeared higher in the sky when moving north and lower when moving south, eventually disappearing below the horizon. This change in the night sky was consistent with a curved Earth.
The ultimate demonstration came during the Age of Exploration, when sailors began to travel great distances. The first circumnavigation of the globe, led by Ferdinand Magellan’s expedition in the early 16th century, provided direct proof that the Earth is spherical. Although Magellan himself did not survive the journey, his crew returned to their starting point after sailing continuously in one general direction. Such a feat would be impossible on a flat surface.
Taken together, these observations—disappearing ships, shifting stars, and the successful circumnavigation of the Earth—offered strong, practical evidence for the Earth’s roundness. Sailors, by relying on keen observation and experience, played a crucial role in confirming this important aspect of Earth’s shape long before satellite imagery or modern science offered absolute proof.
