Final answer:
The Song dynasty witnessed significant population growth and economic development, creating a consumer market, pioneering technology, and fostering cultural prosperity. Unlike the Tang, which was known for cultural influence and innovation, the Song dynasty was characterized by advancements in agriculture and military challenges.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Song dynasty differed from earlier periods such as the Tang and Han dynasties in several significant ways. Notably, the Song dynasty saw remarkable population and economic growth despite governing over less territory.
While Tang China was a cosmopolitan empire known for cultural achievements and innovation, such as woodblock printing and the civil service examination system, the Song dynasty focused on further economic development and innovation which created a consumer market throughout the country. However, militarily, the Song were less successful, facing constant threats and ultimately falling to the Mongols.
In society, the economic changes the Song dynasty brought about allowed for social mobility and the rise of a new affluent middle class, which heavily patronized the arts. Additionally, literacy rates increased, and the study of sciences, mathematics, and philosophy advanced substantially.