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, whose sections include Lilavati on arithmetic and Bijaganita on algebra.
Explanation
Bhaskara II is linked with the 12th-century high point of Indian mathematics. MacTutor History of Mathematics identifies him as Bhaskaracharya or Bhaskara II, born in 1114 AD, and says he became head of the Ujjain school of mathematical astronomy. It records the view that he wrote Siddhanta Siromani in 1150 AD and that the work contained four sections: Lilavati for arithmetic, Bijaganita for algebra, Goladhyaya for the sphere or celestial globe, and Grahaganita for planetary mathematics. This directly matches option A. The same four-part structure explains why the work matters: it represents the peak of the Indian mathematical tradition, with work on arithmetic, algebra, planetary mathematics, equations, pi and early calculus-related ideas.
Why the other options are wrong
- (B) Arthashastra is not the work identified for Bhaskara II; MacTutor History of Mathematics names Siddhanta Siromani and its mathematical-astronomical sections.
- (C) Aryabhatiya does not match the attribution: MacTutor History of Mathematics discusses Bhaskara II's work as Siddhanta Siromani, while mentioning Aryabhata only as part of earlier mathematical methods improved by later work.
- (D) Brahmasphutasiddhanta is not listed as Bhaskara II's text; MacTutor History of Mathematics instead names Siddhanta Siromani and its sections, while referring separately to Brahmagupta in the Ujjain mathematical tradition.
Concept
This tests the Ancient and Medieval India syllabus area on scientific and mathematical achievements. It recurs in RAS because questions often ask aspirants to match major Indian scholars with their signature texts and disciplines.