Sciences
The major scientific achievement were in the areas of astronomy, mathematics, mechanics, medicine and pharmacology, gun powder, the compass, type printing, and shipbuilding.
Type Printing
Bi sheng invented the clay type printing by building on the foundation of his families. This technology travelled to Korea, Japan, Egypt and Europe. The invention of European printing type was 4 centuries later than Bi Sheng's invention.
Picture of clay type courtesy of www.china-window.com
Medical Science:
- famous for the practice of pediatrics, obstetrics and acupunture.
- doctore Song Ci wrote the first book of forensic science.
- Discrimination and explanaiton of the cause of death of the dead were all noted in this book.
- Shen Kuo's book summarised the current medical achievement in the form of an encyclopedia.
Compass
-
The compass was much in use during the Song Dynasty. In the 13th century, the technology travelled from China to Arab and European countries. When used in navigation, it surmounted the difficulties of sea voyages. It helped to promote the the development of exchange between foreign countires.