Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-1984
Publication Title
Revue D'histoire Des Sciences
Department
Science, Technology and Society
Abstract
Beginning with the essential planetary phenomena to be explained, we examine the functions of the equant point and the eccentric deferent circle in Ptolemy's theory. We show that the necessity of the equant point becomes evident as soon as one attempts to save the lengths of the retrograde arcs, and the distances between them, particularly in the case of Mars. Finally, we propose a hypothesis concerning the line of investigation that led Ptolemy to discover the equant.
Volume
37
Issue
34
pp.
193-213
ISSN
0151-4105
WorldCat Link
Provider Link
http://www.persee.fr/web/revues/home/prescript/article/rhs_0151-4105_1984_num_37_3_2036
Citation
Evans, James C. 1984. "Fonction et origine probable du point équant de Ptolémée." Revue D'histoire Des Sciences 37(3-4): 193-213.