Comprehensive Biology Notes: Membrane Transport, Macromolecules, and Energy

Origin and History - Established during the Han Dynasty of China (around 207 BCE – 220 CE). - Connected the East (China) to the West (Mediterranean region and Europe). - It was active for over 1500 years. - Its name derives from the lucrative silk trade, though many other goods were exchanged. - Decline began with the rise of maritime trade routes in the 15^{th} century. - Goods Traded - From East to West: Silk, spices (cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg), tea, porcelain, lacquer, bronzeware, medicinal herbs, perfumes, paper, and gunpowder (later). - From West to East: Gold, silver, wool, carpets, horses, glass, grapes, pomegranates, olives, Roman manufactured goods, furs, and even exotic animals. - Cultural and Technological Exchange - Religion: Significant spread of Buddhism from India to China and other parts of Asia; also facilitated the spread of Nestorian Christianity, Manichaeism, and Islam. - Technology: Exchange of innovations such as papermaking, printing, gunpowder, the compass, and various agricultural techniques (e.g., irri