The Flat Earth: Debunking the Myth with Geometry

When it comes to understanding our planet, many people are quick to dismiss the notion that the Earth is flat. However, a closer look at the way planes fly and the mathematics behind their routes can reveal some fascinating insights into the shape of our world.

Take, for example, the concept of the Great Circle Route. When flying from point A to point B, it's common to think that the shortest distance between two points is a straight line. However, this isn't always the case. Due to the Earth's curvature, planes often take a curved route to reach their destination more efficiently. This is because the circumference of the Earth is significantly longer around the equator than at the poles.

For instance, when flying from Europe to the United States, planes typically fly over Greenland and Northern Canada rather than taking a straight line across the Atlantic Ocean. This may seem counterintuitive, but it's all down to simple geometry. The Earth is not flat; it's an oblate spheroid, meaning that it's slightly flattened at the poles and bulging at the equator.

To put this into perspective, imagine drawing a line around a globe in the middle where it's widest (at the equator) versus towards the North or South poles. The difference in distance is striking, making it clear why planes take the curved route to save time and fuel.

But what about flights that appear to follow a straight line on a map? This is often due to the way maps are projected onto a flat surface. While it may seem like a plane is flying directly from point A to point B, in reality, it's following a curved path over the Earth's surface.

In conclusion, the next time you're on a long-haul flight and wonder why your aircraft is taking a curved route instead of flying in a straight line, remember that it's all about geometry. The Earth is not flat; it's an oblate spheroid with a circumference that's significantly longer around the equator than at the poles. This simple fact has major implications for how planes fly and why they take certain routes.

For those interested in learning more about the shape of our planet, there are many resources available online, including maps and diagrams showing the June and December solstices. Additionally, tools like longitude and time calculators can provide a deeper understanding of the Earth's geometry and how it affects our daily lives.

Flat earth gleason map