02337cam a22003133u 4500 67386 UtSlPG 20260610134545.0 m cr n 260607r20221832utu|||||o|||||||||||||| d UtSlPG en iso639-1 QB Somerville, Mary, 1780-1872 A Preliminary Dissertation on the Mechanisms of the Heavens Salt Lake City, UT : Project Gutenberg, 2022 1 online resource : multiple file formats text txt rdacontent computer c rdamedia online resource cr rdacarrier Release date is 2022-02-12 Laura Natal Rodrigues (Images generously made available by Hathi Trust Digital Library.) "A Preliminary Dissertation on the Mechanism of the Heavens" by Mary Somerville is a scientific publication written in the early 19th century. The text explores the principles of physical astronomy, examining the laws governing celestial motions and the forces that maintain the stability of the solar system. It serves to illuminate the remarkable achievements of astronomers throughout history while encouraging a deep contemplation of the universe's mechanisms. At the start of the dissertation, Somerville lays the groundwork for her investigation into physical astronomy, emphasizing the importance of experiential knowledge and the comparative analysis of phenomena both on Earth and in the cosmos. She initially discusses the foundational work of Newton and the laws of motion that link terrestrial observations to celestial dynamics. Somerville articulates the significance of gravity and attraction in maintaining the orbits of bodies in space, while also advocating for a comprehensive understanding of the mathematical principles that underpin these astronomical phenomena. This opening sets the stage for a deeper inquiry into the evolving complexities of celestial mechanics and the enduring pursuit of truth through scientific exploration. (This is an automatically generated summary.) Originally published: United States: Carey & Lea, 1832 Celestial mechanics https://catalog.hathitrust.org/Record/012309532 https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/67386 108208 108208