Chinese

Question 1

Compass

Answer 1

Originally used to determine if a house was in harmony with nature. Now primarily used for navigation and directions.

Question 2

Gunpowder

Answer 2

Accidentally invented while trying to create an elixir of life. Composed of a mix of sulfur, saltpeter, and charcoal. Used for cannons in warfare.

Question 3

Great Wall of China

Answer 3

One of the Seven Wonders of the World. Represents a series of fortifications initially built with stone.

Question 4

Seismograph

Answer 4

Features dragons facing downwards with small balls in their mouths. During an earthquake, the dragon pointing to the direction of the quake opens its mouth, releasing the ball into a bronze frog underneath.

Question 5

Paper Making

Answer 5

Initially used hemp fiber and silk, but the quality was poor. Invented by Cai Lun using worn fishnets, bark, and cloth.

Question 6

Printing

Answer 6

Fixed-type engraved printing was invented around 600 AD. Bi Sheng created moving and reusable clay type.

Question 7

Fireworks

Answer 7

Originally used for entertainment. Later adapted to scare enemies during warfare.

Question 8

Mathematics in China

Answer 8

Abacus: Predecessor to the calculator, used as a bead-like computation device. Zu Chongzi: Calculated Pi to the 7th digit. Liu Ju-Hsieh: Discovered ‘Pascal’s’ triangle.

Question 9

Silk

Answer 9

Made from the cocoons of silkworms. Led to the development of the Silk Road, a trade route connecting China to Europe.

Question 10

Tea

Answer 10

Initially used as a medicinal drink. Later became a popular social beverage.

Question 11

Wheelbarrow

Answer 11

Also known as the ‘wooden ox.’ Used to carry heavy loads efficiently.