The search to explain planetary orbits exemplifies the scientific method and the use of models in several ways. First, scientists observed that the planets move in elliptical paths around the Sun, rather than in perfect circles. This observation led to the formulation of a question: why do planets follow elliptical orbits? To answer this question, scientists proposed various hypotheses, such as the presence of an unknown force or gravitational influence. These hypotheses then generated predictions that could be tested through experiments and observations. Scientists collected data from planetary movements and employed mathematical models to analyze the patterns and deduce underlying principles. These models allowed scientists to make predictions about future planetary positions and movements. By comparing these predictions with real-world observations, scientists were able to refine their models and develop a comprehensive explanation for planetary orbits, i.e., the laws of planetary motion formulated by Johannes Kepler. Thus, the search to explain planetary orbits illustrates the systematic and iterative nature of the scientific method, as well as the crucial role of models in generating predictive explanations.
