Answer:
Paper, Gunpowder, Compass, and Silk.
China has been a source of many significant inventions throughout history that have had a profound impact on the world today. Here are four examples:
Paper: The invention of paper by the Chinese around 105 AD revolutionized communication and literacy, making it possible for people to write down and share their ideas with others on a large scale. Prior to paper, writing was done on materials like silk and bamboo, which were much more expensive and cumbersome to use. The widespread use of paper led to the development of printing technologies, including the printing press, which revolutionized the dissemination of knowledge and helped pave the way for modern education.
Gunpowder: The discovery of gunpowder by the Chinese in the 9th century AD transformed warfare and had a profound impact on world history. Gunpowder was used to create early forms of explosives and eventually led to the development of firearms, cannons, and other weapons that changed the nature of warfare forever. The use of gunpowder in warfare helped to usher in the modern era of global conflicts and shaped the course of world history in numerous ways.
Compass: The invention of the compass by the Chinese during the Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD) revolutionized navigation and allowed for the exploration of the oceans and the mapping of the world. The compass made it possible to navigate with greater accuracy and helped to facilitate trade and travel across the seas. The compass was also a critical tool for explorers, including Christopher Columbus, who used it to navigate across the Atlantic Ocean during his historic voyage to the Americas.
Silk: The production of silk by the Chinese has been a major influence on world trade and fashion for centuries. Silk was highly valued in ancient times for its beauty, texture, and durability, and it became a highly sought-after commodity that was traded across the ancient world. The silk trade played a significant role in the development of global commerce and helped to shape the cultural exchange between East and West. Today, silk is still a highly prized material that is used in a wide range of applications, from clothing to medical devices.