242MD1A58TC / Essence of Indian Traditional Knowledge Dr.G.S.SAMY Department of Mechanical Engineering AMET University Unit-I Indian Knowledge Systems and Traditional Knowledge
Sample Objective Questions Objective Questions on Indian Traditional Knowledge: Who is the founder of the Vaisheshika school of philosophy? a) Aryabhata b) Kanada c) Brahmagupta d) Charaka Answer: b) Kanada ( Sage Kanada) Which ancient text introduced the rules for solving quadratic equations? a) Charaka Samhita b) Sushruta Samhita c) Brahmasphutasiddhanta d) Krishi- Parashara Answer: c) Brahmasphutasiddhanta The Iron Pillar of Delhi is famous for its: a) Gold-plating b) Rust-resistant iron c) Copper coating d) Silver inlay Answer: b) Rust-resistant iron Dr.G.S.SAMY Department of Mechanical Engineering AMET University
What was Wootz steel known for? a) Durability and flexibility b) Rust-proof coating c) Gold infusion d) High mercury content Answer: a) Durability and flexibility Which text is associated with Ayurveda and medicinal plant classification? a) Krishi- Parashara b) Charaka Samhita c) Brihat Samhita d) Apastamba Sutra Answer: b) Charaka Samhita Who introduced the sine ( jya ) function in trigonometry? a) Apastamba b) Aryabhata c) Bhaskaracharya d) Baudhayana Answer: b) Aryabhata Dr.G.S.SAMY Department of Mechanical Engineering AMET University
Which metal was primarily used in the construction of the Iron Pillar of Delhi? a) Copper b) Zinc c) Iron d) Bronze Answer: c) Iron The concept of zero ( shunya ) was introduced by: a) Aryabhata b) Kanada c) Bhaskaracharya d) Brahmagupta Answer: d) Brahmagupta The ancient Indian method of gold refining was known as: a) Dhatu Shastra b) Rasayana c) Swarna Nirman d) Pattana Answer: b) Rasayana The Krishi- Parashara text is related to: a) Veterinary science b) Mathematics c) Agriculture d) Metallurgy Answer: c) Agriculture Dr.G.S.SAMY Department of Mechanical Engineering AMET University
Traditional Knowledge of Chemistry in India Alchemy and Rasayana Shastra: Ancient Indian chemistry, known as Rasayana Shastra, focused on alchemy, metallurgy, and medicine. It aimed at transmuting base metals into gold and discovering elixirs for longevity. Ayurveda and Chemistry: Ayurveda used chemical processes such as extraction, purification, and synthesis of medicinal compounds. Classical texts like Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita mention various chemical preparations. Concept of Atoms and Molecules: Indian philosophers like sage Kanada (founder of the Vaisheshika school) theorized about atomic structure, stating that matter consists of indivisible particles ( paramanus ). Chemical Processes: Ancient texts describe distillation, sublimation, calcination, and fermentation, which were used in medicine, metallurgy, and dyeing industries. Gunpowder and Pyrotechnics: Some texts discuss the composition of incendiary devices, hinting at early knowledge of explosives. Dr.G.S.SAMY Department of Mechanical Engineering AMET University
Traditional Knowledge of Mathematics in India: Decimal System and Zero: Indian mathematicians introduced the decimal numeral system and the concept of zero ( shunya ). Aryabhata and Brahmagupta played significant roles in these developments. Algebra and Arithmetic: Brahmagupta's " Brahmasphuta siddhanta " introduced rules for solving quadratic equations and operations with negative numbers. Geometry and Trigonometry: Baudhayana and Apastamba Sutras contained geometric principles, including the Pythagorean theorem (long before Pythagoras). Aryabhata introduced sine ( jya ) functions in trigonometry. Infinity and Calculus: Bhaskaracharya ( Bhaskara II) explored differential calculus and concepts related to infinity, predating European mathematicians by centuries. Mathematical Astronomy: Indian mathematicians contributed to accurate astronomical calculations, including planetary motions and eclipses. Dr.G.S.SAMY Department of Mechanical Engineering AMET University
Traditional Knowledge of Metallurgy in India: Iron and Steel Production: India was famous for high-quality iron and steel production. The Wootz steel, known for its superior strength and flexibility, was exported to the Middle East and Europe. Rust-Resistant Iron: The Iron Pillar of Delhi, built during the Gupta period, is a remarkable example of India's advanced rust-resistant iron technology. Copper and Zinc Extraction: Ancient texts mention the extraction and purification of metals like copper, zinc, and mercury, used in medicine and metallurgy. Coinage and Alloys: Indian metallurgists developed sophisticated methods for alloying metals to produce durable coins and artifacts. Gold and Silver Refining: Ancient Indian methods of refining gold and silver were highly advanced, contributing to the prosperity of kingdoms. Dr.G.S.SAMY Department of Mechanical Engineering AMET University
Traditional Knowledge of Plant and Animal Science in Ancient India: Agriculture and Horticulture: Texts like Krishi- Parashara and Brihat Samhita detailed agricultural practices, soil management, and plant growth. Herbal Medicine: Ayurveda categorized medicinal plants and described their properties, applications, and preparation methods for treating diseases. Veterinary Science: The ancient text " Ashwamedhika Pariksha " detailed the health, breeding, and treatment of horses and cattle. Classification of Plants and Animals: The Rigveda, Charaka Samhita, and Sushruta Samhita classified plants based on medicinal value and animals based on their utility in human life. Environmental Awareness: Ancient Indian traditions emphasized sustainable agricultural practices, biodiversity conservation, and forest management. Dr.G.S.SAMY Department of Mechanical Engineering AMET University
Dr.G.S.SAMY Department of Mechanical Engineering AMET University