Sci-Five | The Hindu Science Quiz: On Printing
Printing has a rich history that dates back to ancient China. Let’s test your knowledge with this quiz on the fascinating world of printing!
The Earliest Printing Method in China
1 / 5 | What was the earliest known form of printing in ancient China, which involved cutting calligraphic texts into wooden blocks?
- Typography
- Xylography
- Lithography
- Engraving
In the 8th century, the Chinese developed xylography, a technique of cutting calligraphic texts into wooden blocks. This method allowed them to create prints and marks the earliest form of printing in China.
The Oldest Dated Printed Book
2 / 5 | Which ancient text, dated to 868 CE, is considered the oldest dated complete printed book of block printing, found in Dunhuang, China?
- Gutenberg Bible
- The Canterbury Tales
- Diamond Sutra
- Mesopotamian Seal
The Diamond Sutra, discovered in Dunhuang, China, is the oldest complete printed book using block printing techniques. This ancient text bears the date of May 11, 868 CE.
The Inventor of the Movable Type Printing Press
3 / 5 | Who is credited with inventing the movable type printing press in Europe?
- Aloys Senefelder
- Johannes Gutenberg
- Geoffrey Chaucer
- William Caxton
Johannes Gutenberg, a goldsmith from Mainz, Germany, is credited with inventing the movable type printing press in Europe. This invention revolutionized the printing industry and paved the way for the mass production of books.
The Printing Press Arrives in Britain
4 / 5 | In which century did the printing press come to Britain, thanks to William Caxton?
- 1400s
- 1500s
- 1600s
- 1700s
The printing press arrived in Britain in 1476, thanks to William Caxton. He printed the iconic work, Geoffrey Chaucer’s “The Canterbury Tales,” marking a significant milestone in the history of British printing.
The Reproduction Method: Lithography
5 / 5 | Which printing method, invented by Aloys Senefelder, allowed for the reproduction of handwriting and drawings directly on a smooth stone surface?
- Typography
- Xylography
- Engraving
- Lithography
Aloys Senefelder invented lithography in the 1790s. This innovative technique enabled the reproduction of handwriting and drawings directly on a smooth stone surface. Senefelder’s method involved using a slightly waxy or greasy tool to write on the stone.