Multiple Choice Questions on Ancient Indian Observatories

Description: This quiz consists of multiple-choice questions on ancient Indian observatories, which were used for astronomical observations and studies.
Number of Questions: 15
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Which of the following is considered the oldest known astronomical observatory in India?

  1. Jantar Mantar, Jaipur

  2. Brihadeeswarar Temple, Thanjavur

  3. Sun Temple, Konark

  4. Nalanda University Observatory


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The Nalanda University Observatory, located in present-day Bihar, is believed to have been built in the 5th century BCE and is considered the oldest known astronomical observatory in India.

The Jantar Mantar in Jaipur, Rajasthan, was constructed by which ruler?

  1. Sawai Jai Singh II

  2. Akbar

  3. Shah Jahan

  4. Aurangzeb


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The Jantar Mantar in Jaipur was constructed by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in the early 18th century. It is a collection of architectural astronomical instruments that were used for various astronomical observations.

What is the primary purpose of an astronomical observatory?

  1. To study the weather and climate

  2. To observe celestial bodies and astronomical phenomena

  3. To conduct experiments in physics and chemistry

  4. To study the Earth's geology and geography


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

The primary purpose of an astronomical observatory is to observe celestial bodies and astronomical phenomena, such as the movement of stars, planets, and other objects in the sky.

Which ancient Indian observatory is known for its alignment with the Sun during the equinoxes?

  1. Jantar Mantar, Delhi

  2. Sun Temple, Konark

  3. Brihadeeswarar Temple, Thanjavur

  4. Nalanda University Observatory


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

The Sun Temple in Konark, Odisha, is known for its alignment with the Sun during the equinoxes. The temple's main entrance is positioned in such a way that the Sun's rays illuminate the sanctum sanctorum during sunrise on the spring and autumn equinoxes.

What is the name of the instrument in the Jantar Mantar that is used to measure the altitude of celestial bodies?

  1. Samrat Yantra

  2. Rashivalaya

  3. Jai Prakash

  4. Misra Yantra


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The Samrat Yantra in the Jantar Mantar is a large sundial that is used to measure the altitude of celestial bodies. It consists of a massive triangular structure with a curved quadrant and a gnomon, which casts a shadow on the quadrant to indicate the altitude of the Sun or other celestial objects.

Which ancient Indian observatory is located in the state of Tamil Nadu?

  1. Jantar Mantar, Jaipur

  2. Brihadeeswarar Temple, Thanjavur

  3. Sun Temple, Konark

  4. Nalanda University Observatory


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

The Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, is an ancient Indian observatory. It is known for its massive granite structure and its alignment with the Sun during the summer solstice.

What is the name of the instrument in the Jantar Mantar that is used to measure the time of day?

  1. Samrat Yantra

  2. Rashivalaya

  3. Jai Prakash

  4. Misra Yantra


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

The Jai Prakash in the Jantar Mantar is a large sundial that is used to measure the time of day. It consists of a hemispherical bowl with a gnomon at its center. The shadow of the gnomon falls on the inner surface of the bowl, indicating the time of day.

Which ancient Indian observatory is believed to have been built by King Bhoja in the 11th century?

  1. Jantar Mantar, Jaipur

  2. Brihadeeswarar Temple, Thanjavur

  3. Sun Temple, Konark

  4. Bhoj Shala, Dhar


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The Bhoj Shala in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh, is an ancient Indian observatory that is believed to have been built by King Bhoja in the 11th century. It is known for its collection of astronomical instruments, including a sundial, a quadrant, and a celestial globe.

What is the name of the instrument in the Jantar Mantar that is used to study the motion of the planets?

  1. Samrat Yantra

  2. Rashivalaya

  3. Jai Prakash

  4. Misra Yantra


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

The Rashivalaya in the Jantar Mantar is an instrument that is used to study the motion of the planets. It consists of a circular platform with twelve zodiac signs marked on it. The positions of the planets are plotted on the platform, allowing astronomers to track their movement over time.

Which ancient Indian observatory is located in the state of Odisha?

  1. Jantar Mantar, Jaipur

  2. Brihadeeswarar Temple, Thanjavur

  3. Sun Temple, Konark

  4. Nalanda University Observatory


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

The Sun Temple in Konark, Odisha, is an ancient Indian observatory. It is known for its intricate carvings and its alignment with the Sun during the equinoxes.

What is the name of the instrument in the Jantar Mantar that is used to measure the distance between celestial bodies?

  1. Samrat Yantra

  2. Rashivalaya

  3. Jai Prakash

  4. Misra Yantra


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The Misra Yantra in the Jantar Mantar is an instrument that is used to measure the distance between celestial bodies. It consists of two pillars with a crossbar connecting them. The distance between the pillars is known, and the angle between the crossbar and the line connecting the two celestial bodies is measured. This allows astronomers to calculate the distance between the celestial bodies.

Which ancient Indian observatory is located in the state of Bihar?

  1. Jantar Mantar, Jaipur

  2. Brihadeeswarar Temple, Thanjavur

  3. Sun Temple, Konark

  4. Nalanda University Observatory


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The Nalanda University Observatory is located in the state of Bihar. It is believed to have been built in the 5th century BCE and is considered the oldest known astronomical observatory in India.

What is the name of the instrument in the Jantar Mantar that is used to study the precession of the equinoxes?

  1. Samrat Yantra

  2. Rashivalaya

  3. Jai Prakash

  4. Misra Yantra


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The Samrat Yantra in the Jantar Mantar is also used to study the precession of the equinoxes. The precession of the equinoxes is the gradual shift in the position of the equinoxes over time. The Samrat Yantra allows astronomers to measure this shift and track its progress.

Which ancient Indian observatory is located in the state of Rajasthan?

  1. Jantar Mantar, Jaipur

  2. Brihadeeswarar Temple, Thanjavur

  3. Sun Temple, Konark

  4. Nalanda University Observatory


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The Jantar Mantar in Jaipur, Rajasthan, is an ancient Indian observatory. It was constructed by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in the early 18th century and is a collection of architectural astronomical instruments.

What is the name of the instrument in the Jantar Mantar that is used to study the motion of the Moon?

  1. Samrat Yantra

  2. Rashivalaya

  3. Jai Prakash

  4. Misra Yantra


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

The Jai Prakash in the Jantar Mantar is also used to study the motion of the Moon. The Jai Prakash allows astronomers to track the Moon's position and velocity over time.

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