Chapter 2, Problem 1RCQ

What class of motion, natural or violent, did Aristotle attribute to motion of the Moon?

To determine

The class of motion attributed to the Moon by Aristotle.

Answer to Problem 1RCQ

Solution: Natural Motion.

Explanation of Solution

According to Aristotle, if the motion of an object requires a force to make it move, it as an unnatural motion. On the other hand, if an object faces motion without being forced, it is classified as a natural motion.

Aristotle divided motion into two types:

1. Natural Motion: Under this motion, the natural position of an object is at rest. The object is attracted to the center of the earth. The heavier the object is, the stronger will be the force. In this kind of motion, there are two forces, they are an upward and downward force. For example, a stone falling on the ground.
2. Violent motion: Under this motion, the motion is imposed on the object. This means that an external push or pull force is applied fall in this category. For example, horse pulling a cart.

According to Aristotle, the Moon and stars − are embedded in perfectly concentric Crystal sphere" that rotate eternally at fixed rates, so the motion of the Moon come under the category of natural motion.

Conclusion:

The class of motion attributed to Moon by Aristotle was Natural motion.