Chinese Discoveries and Inventions

To navigate across open ocean, the Chinese invented a device based on

• alchemy

• astrology

• magnetism

• gravitation

Why did the Chinese build ships with separate watertight compartments?

• so a leak in one part would not sink the ship

• so each merchant's goods were easy to identify

• so the ship could be raised or lowered through a lock

• so spices could be carried long distances without spoiling

Compared to a Roman-style arch, what was the advantage of the Chinese segmental arch?

• it could use more material

• it could be wider and flatter

• it could have a higher center

• it could stop flowing water

• paper • woodblock printing • movable type

These inventions all contributed to

• restrictions on trade

• a new ruling dynasty

• the spread of learning

• the rise of social classes

All over China by the 700s, the popularity of one drink led to the opening of

• wine bars

• tea houses

• beer cellars

• coffee houses

In the mass-production of porcelain, different workers did different tasks:

• wash the clay • shape the dish, bowl, or vase • apply the glaze • operate the kiln

What did this process make possible?

• more skillful workers

• better quality porcelain

• greater variety of tableware

• larger quantity of merchandise

Why did Europeans refer to fine dinnerware as “china”?

• Europeans copied Chinese art to print on their pottery

• Chinese pottery was common in Europe because of its low cost

• the shapes of Chines plates and bowls were popular in Europe

• Rich Europeans bought Chinese pottery because of its high quality

When the Chinese already had iron, why did they develop a way to make steel?

• steel is stronger than iron

• steel is less flexible than iron

• steel is easier to make than iron

• steel is more available than iron

Why did Chinese alchemists warn people to stay away from the powder they made with saltpeter?

• it might be poisonous

• it had a secret formula

• it was likely to explode

• it could be turned into gold

Which Chinese invention led to a reduction in the use of crossbows, swords, and spears in warfare?

• steel

• compass

• telegraph

• gunpowder