Dr Needham's fourth volume traces the development of physics and physical technology in ancient and medieval China. It is conveniently divided into three separate parts, the present volume, IV:1, dealing with physics as such, IV:2 with mechanical engineering and IV:3 with civil engineering and nautics.

List of illustrations; List of tables; List of abbreviations; Acknowledgements; Author's note; 26. Physics; Bibliographies; General index.