-
The chinese invented tea they have been drinking it since around 2,700 B.C.E. It was first only drank as medicine. By the 8th century it started getting really popular.
-
Chinese compasses were pieces of a magnetic mineral
called lodestone. Because lodestone is magnetic, it is
influenced by Earth’s magnetic poles. -
Papermaking became an important industry in China. For more than 500 years, the Chinese were the only people in the world who knew how to make paper.
-
In the 7th century, the Chinese invented a technique called woodblock printing. The printer first drew characters a piece of paper. He then glued the paper to a wooden block.
-
The Chinese made wheel that made a complete turn every 24 hours. water made the wheel turn. Every hour, a bell would chime. The sounds let people know what time it was.
-
Chinese alchemists experimented with a mineral called saltpeter. They believed that saltpeter could extend life. By accident, they discovered that it could be used to make an explosive powder. In 850 C.E., alchemists recorded a formula for gunpowder. They warned others to avoid it because it was extremely dangerous.
-
Printers used woodblock printing to make the cards from thick paper. Famous artists drew the designs that appeared on the backs of the cards.
-
Paper money was printed with wood blocks. By 1107, Song printers were using multiple wood blocks to print each bill. A single bill would have many colors.
-
Early flamethrowers contained gunpowder mixed with oil. The Chinese used them to spray enemies with a stream of fire.
-
Rockets were powered by a black powder made of saltpeter, charcoal, and sulfur.
