RAS question
Bhaskara II (Bhaskaracharya, 12th century) wrote:
Correct answer: (A) Siddhanta Shiromani (including Lilavati on arithmetic and Bijaganita on algebra).
Bhaskara II, also known as Bhaskaracharya, wrote the Siddhanta Shiromani in 1150 AD. Its four sections are Lilavati on arithmetic, Bijaganita on algebra, Goladhyaya on the sphere or celestial globe, and Grahaganita on planetary mathematics.
Explanation
Bhaskara II, also known as Bhaskaracharya, was a leading 12th-century scholar of Indian mathematics and astronomy. He was born in 1114 AD and became head of the Ujjain school of mathematical astronomy. He wrote the Siddhanta Shiromani in 1150 AD. The work has four sections: Lilavati on arithmetic; Bijaganita on algebra; Goladhyaya on the sphere or celestial globe; and Grahaganita on planetary mathematics. These details identify option A as correct. The work represents a high point of the Indian mathematical tradition and covers arithmetic, algebra, planetary mathematics, equations, pi, and ideas related to early calculus.
Why the other options are wrong
- (B) Arthashastra is not Bhaskara II's mathematical-astronomical work; the work associated with the 12th-century Bhaskaracharya is Siddhanta Shiromani.
- (C) Aryabhatiya is associated with Aryabhata, not Bhaskara II; Siddhanta Shiromani, Lilavati, and Bijaganita are associated with Bhaskara II.
- (D) Brahmasphutasiddhanta is not Bhaskara II's work; his Siddhanta Shiromani has the sections Lilavati, Bijaganita, Goladhyaya, and Grahaganita.
Concept
This question covers scientific and mathematical achievements in ancient and medieval India. RAS often asks candidates to match major Indian scholars with their principal texts and fields.