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The Mauryan Empire's Contributions to Mathematics and Astronomy: A Legacy of Precision

Description: The Mauryan Empire, renowned for its vast territory and influential rulers, also made significant contributions to the fields of mathematics and astronomy. This quiz delves into the legacy of precision and innovation left by the Mauryan Empire in these disciplines.
Number of Questions: 14
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Tags: mauryan empire mathematics astronomy ancient india science and technology
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Which Mauryan ruler is credited with establishing the first university in India, Takshashila?

  1. Chandragupta Maurya

  2. Ashoka

  3. Bindusara

  4. Samudragupta


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Chandragupta Maurya, the founder of the Mauryan Empire, is believed to have established Takshashila, one of the earliest universities in India, known for its advanced studies in various fields, including mathematics and astronomy.

The Mauryan Empire adopted a standardized system of weights and measures. What was the primary unit of length during this period?

  1. Hasta

  2. Angula

  3. Yojana

  4. Danda


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

The Angula, which translates to 'finger-width', served as the primary unit of length in the Mauryan Empire. It was defined as the width of eight barleycorns placed side by side.

The Mauryans made significant advancements in astronomy. Which celestial body did they accurately calculate the circumference of?

  1. Sun

  2. Moon

  3. Earth

  4. Jupiter


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

The Mauryan astronomers accurately calculated the circumference of the Earth using a method known as 'Jyotisha'. Their estimation was remarkably close to the modern value, demonstrating their expertise in astronomical observations.

The Mauryans developed a sophisticated calendar system. What was the name of the calendar they used?

  1. Vikram Samvat

  2. Shaka Samvat

  3. Nakshatra Calendar

  4. Surya Siddhanta


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

The Mauryans utilized the Nakshatra Calendar, which was based on the movement of the moon and the position of stars. This calendar played a crucial role in determining auspicious dates and times for various events.

Which Mauryan ruler is associated with the construction of the famous Ashoka pillars, some of which bear inscriptions related to astronomy?

  1. Chandragupta Maurya

  2. Bindusara

  3. Ashoka

  4. Samudragupta


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Ashoka, the third Mauryan emperor, is renowned for his contributions to the spread of Buddhism and the construction of numerous Ashoka pillars. Several of these pillars feature inscriptions that provide valuable insights into the astronomical knowledge of the Mauryan period.

The Mauryans made significant contributions to the field of mathematics. Which mathematical concept did they develop and use extensively?

  1. Pythagorean Theorem

  2. Pascal's Triangle

  3. Fibonacci Sequence

  4. Zero


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The Mauryans played a pivotal role in the development and widespread use of the concept of zero. This fundamental mathematical concept revolutionized calculations and paved the way for advancements in mathematics and astronomy.

Which Mauryan astronomer is credited with writing the Surya Siddhanta, a significant astronomical text?

  1. Aryabhata

  2. Bhaskara II

  3. Lagadha

  4. Brahmagupta


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Lagadha, a renowned Mauryan astronomer, is believed to have authored the Surya Siddhanta, a seminal text that greatly influenced the development of astronomy in India. This text provided detailed insights into planetary motions, eclipses, and other celestial phenomena.

The Mauryans made advancements in trigonometry. Which trigonometric function did they use to calculate the height of objects?

  1. Sine

  2. Cosine

  3. Tangent

  4. Cosecant


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

The Mauryans employed the tangent function to determine the height of objects, such as buildings and mountains. This function allowed them to make accurate measurements and calculations related to angles and distances.

Which Mauryan ruler patronized the renowned mathematician and astronomer Aryabhata?

  1. Chandragupta Maurya

  2. Ashoka

  3. Bindusara

  4. Samudragupta


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Samudragupta, a powerful Mauryan ruler, was a patron of the celebrated mathematician and astronomer Aryabhata. Aryabhata made significant contributions to mathematics and astronomy, including the development of the concept of zero and the heliocentric theory.

The Mauryans developed a sophisticated system of astronomy. What was the primary purpose of this system?

  1. Religious rituals

  2. Navigation

  3. Timekeeping

  4. Predicting eclipses


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The Mauryan astronomers developed their astronomical system primarily to predict eclipses accurately. Eclipses were considered significant celestial events, and their accurate prediction held great importance in religious and cultural practices.

Which Mauryan ruler is credited with the construction of the famous Dhamek Stupa, which features intricate astronomical motifs?

  1. Chandragupta Maurya

  2. Ashoka

  3. Bindusara

  4. Samudragupta


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Ashoka, the renowned Mauryan emperor, is associated with the construction of the Dhamek Stupa, located in Sarnath, India. This stupa is adorned with exquisite astronomical motifs, including representations of the sun, moon, and stars, showcasing the Mauryan interest in celestial observations.

The Mauryans made advancements in the field of geometry. Which geometric shape did they extensively use in architecture and construction?

  1. Circle

  2. Square

  3. Rectangle

  4. Triangle


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

The Mauryans frequently employed the rectangle in their architectural designs and constructions. This shape provided stability and structural integrity to buildings, exemplified by the rectangular foundations and chambers found in Mauryan architecture.

Which Mauryan ruler is credited with the establishment of the Jyotisha Shastra, a significant astronomical treatise?

  1. Chandragupta Maurya

  2. Ashoka

  3. Bindusara

  4. Samudragupta


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Bindusara, the second Mauryan emperor, is believed to have initiated the compilation of the Jyotisha Shastra, an influential astronomical treatise. This text covered various aspects of astronomy, including planetary motions, eclipses, and the zodiac.

The Mauryans developed a sophisticated system of timekeeping. What was the primary unit of time measurement during this period?

  1. Day

  2. Hour

  3. Minute

  4. Second


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The Mauryans primarily used the day as the fundamental unit of time measurement. They divided the day into smaller units, such as hours and minutes, but the day remained the standard unit for measuring time intervals.

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