Research On Centre Of Gravity In Ming And Qing

The definition for center of gravity and its relevant knowledge is central in mechanics (esp. statics) which developed early in physics. In ancient China, knowledge about center of gravity was practiced fully but remained in qualitative experience until in late Ming and early Qing, it was introduced to China with the spreading of physics, from which Chinese scholars knew about center of gravity and gained knowledge relative to statics followed by the research promoting the cognition for center of gravity and its relevant knowledge to be generalized theoretically. This was a prelude for modernization of Chinese physics. Especially in mid 1800s, since the introduction process of western modern mechanics and calculus acted as a miniature of Chinese physics modernization, the knowledge about center of gravity was deepened and systemized. Therefore, studying the developing sequence of center of gravity in Ming and Qing gave a valuable idea about the Chinese physics modernization.It is seen that Chinese physics wasn't systemized before the introduction of western science setup. Actually, the process of Chinese physics modernization marked with the perfection of maths modernization (Ifc^^) began after the introduction. In late 1800s, Chinese physics entered the stage of stating and explaining physics phenomena and principles, which embodied in the study of center of gravity. In early 1900s, almost all about physics had been introduced to China, and subsequently, Chinese physics could keep pace with the world trend.Undoubtedly, the early Christian missionaries and the late English and American missionaries played an important role in this process, but the contributions made by the Chinese scientists like Mei Wending, Zou Boqi and Gu Guanguang should be thought highly of with critical devotion of Wang Zheng and Li Shanlan.This paper made profound study on center of gravity and the knowledge relative to that by exploring the historical material in Ming and Qing like Yuanxiqiqitushuo, Lingheyixiangzhi, Qionglixue, Dusuanshili, Qingqiuzhongxinshu, Qiuzhongxinshuo, Zhongxue, Weijisuyuan, Jingzhongxueji, Dongzhongxinji, Gewucesuan, Gewurumen. Meanwhile, evolution of center of physics was deliberated in addition to finding some new material.