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Using lodestone, the Chinese invented the compass to travel safer and faster. Later, they discovered, that they could rub lodestone on a steel needle and the compass would work the same. The needle also allowed a more accurate reading of the compass. EXPLORATION/TRAVEL
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When a person passed of infectious disease, the Chinese would burn a chemical the created a smoke. The smoke was thought to be poisonous, and kill off the disease. Later, it was discovered that the smoke was actually a type of disinfectant. DISEASE PREVENTION
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The Chinese invented the paddle wheel. It was tiresome and time consuming to paddle by hand to get somewhere. So, the Chinese put a series of paddles on a wheel to push the boat. All the people had to do was simply walk on a treadmill. EXPLORATION/TRAVEL
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Alchemists were originally searching for a substance to allow human beings to live forever. While experimenting with a mineral called saltpeter, the Chinese alchemists discovered that the mineral could be made into an explosive powder. MILITARY
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Inoculation is a way of stimulating a person's immune system to fight a certain disease. Similar to vaccines we have today. The Chinese invented this, and saved lives.
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The Chinese did not discover or invent steam, but they did discover that it could kill germs. They steamed clothing of the sick, believing that it would prevent others from becoming ill. In the end, steam and boiling water are used to kill germs and bacteria. DISEASE PREVENTION
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Artillery shells were thrown with catapults. They exploded after they were thrown to confuse the enemies and frighten their horses. MILITARY
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At first, the Chinese used rockets only for fireworks. But, using gunpowder, they started to use them in war as a weapon. MILITARY
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The Chinese did not invent the bridge but improved it. The bridge they created was curved with semi - circles built inside of it. It was both strong and safe. EXPLORATION/TRAVEL
