Shen Kuo

Shen Kuo (or Shen Gua ; 1031–1095) was a Chinese scientist and politician. He lived during the Song Dynasty. He was a polymath, being good at many fields of study.

Many of his most important works came from his use of astronomy. In 1088, Shen was the first to describe the magnetic needle compass, which would be used for navigation. He was also one of the first to suggest that the Earth goes through gradual climate change. His hobbies consisted of music, painting, calligraphy, and philosophy.

Related pages
List of Chinese scientists

Category:1031 births
Category:1095 deaths
Category:History of China
Category:Chinese inventors
Category:Chinese astronomers
Category:11th-century Chinese writers