Question

Collect information about time-measuring devices that were used in the ancient times in different parts of the world. Prepare a brief write up on each one of them. The write up may include the name of the device, the place of its origin, the period when it was used, the unit in which the time was measured by it and a drawing or a photograph of the device, if available.

Answer 1

Ancient Time-Measuring Devices:

1. Sundial:
   • Origin: Ancient Egypt
   • Period: Around 1500 BCE
   • Unit: Hour
   • Description: Uses the position of the sun to cast a shadow on a marked surface to indicate time.
   • Diagram: 
     
2. Water Clock (Clepsydra):
   • Origin: Ancient Greece and China
   • Period: 16th century BCE to 10th century CE
   • Unit: Hour, Minute
   • Description: Measures time by the flow of water between containers.
   • Diagram:
     
3. Hourglass:
   • Origin: Europe
   • Period: 14th century CE
   • Unit: Minute, Hour
   • Description: Uses the flow of sand between two bulbs to measure time.
   • Diagram:
     
4. Candle Clock:
   • Origin: China and Japan
   • Period: 10th century CE
   • Unit: Hour
   • Description: Measures time by the rate at which a marked candle burns.
   • Diagram:
     
5. Mechanical Clock:
   • Origin: Europe
   • Period: 13th century CE
   • Unit: Hour, Minute
   • Description: Uses gears and springs for precise timekeeping.
   • Diagram:
     

These devices show the diverse methods used in ancient times to measure time, from natural elements like the sun and water to mechanical innovations.