RAS question
Aryabhata is known for:
Correct answer: (C) Proposing that the Earth rotates on its axis.
Aryabhata is known for proposing that the Earth rotates on its own axis.
Explanation
Aryabhata, born in 476, belongs to the classical age of Indian astronomy and is linked with Kusumapura, identified with modern Patna, and quite possibly with the Nalanda School. His Aryabhatiya is an early preserved scientific astronomical text bearing an individual author's name, and it dealt with both mathematics and astronomy. The tested point is his acceptance of the possibility of Earth's rotation, which directly supports the statement that the Earth rotates on its own axis. Aryabhatiya is also placed in 499 AD, alongside his calculation of pi as 3.1416, scientific explanation of eclipses, and use of zero as a place-holder. These details point to astronomy and mathematics, not medicine, optics, or modern physics.
Why the other options are wrong
- (A) The Sushruta Samhita is associated with Sushruta and surgery, while Aryabhata's work belongs to astronomy and mathematics.
- (B) The telescope is not part of Aryabhata's contribution here; its invention is attributed to Galileo.
- (D) The theory of gravity is attributed in the question material to Newton, whereas Aryabhata is being tested here for Earth's rotation and related astronomical work.
Concept
This tests scientific developments in ancient India, especially astronomy and mathematics. RAS often asks such questions because individual scholars and their signature contributions are high-yield static-history facts.