⏰ when

When was the first seismograph invented?

Quick Answer

The earliest known seismoscope was invented in 132 CE by Zhang Heng.

The Full Story

The first device to detect earthquakes is traditionally credited to Zhang Heng, who built a seismoscope in 132 CE in ancient China. It reportedly used a mechanism with metal balls and dragons to indicate the direction of a distant quake. While it did not record waveforms like a modern seismograph, it was an extraordinary early instrument for detecting seismic activity. Modern seismographs were later developed in the 19th century.

Key Facts

1.Invented in 132 CE
2.Associated with Zhang Heng
3.Early device for detecting earthquake direction

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"The ancient earthquake detector that was centuries ahead of its time"

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