Realising that trees are mostly air requires the knowledge of multiple scientific facts and methodologies; carbon and oxygen are heavier than hydrogen, measuring carbon input/output, usage of isotopes to make sure we are registering the same carbon in our input/output experiment etc. Van helmont's tree weighing experiment (1640s) was, in my opinion, more complex than the fact that 'trees are made of air'. Thus, a paradox is identified.
Maybe I'm getting caught up in your example. Though i understand the substance of your thought, "experts are engaged in advan... (read more)
Realising that trees are mostly air requires the knowledge of multiple scientific facts and methodologies; carbon and oxygen are heavier than hydrogen, measuring carbon input/output, usage of isotopes to make sure we are registering the same carbon in our input/output experiment etc.
Van helmont's tree weighing experiment (1640s) was, in my opinion, more complex than the fact that 'trees are made of air'.
Thus, a paradox is identified.
Maybe I'm getting caught up in your example. Though i understand the substance of your thought, "experts are engaged in advan... (read more)