Consider the following regarding Varahamihira: 1. He contributed to t...
Varahamihira was an eminent Indian mathematician, astronomer, and astrologer who lived during the 6th century CE. He made significant contributions to the fields of mathematics, astronomy, and astrology. Let's examine each statement individually to determine the correct answer.
1. He contributed to trigonometry by improving sine tables of Aryabhatta.
Varahamihira indeed contributed to trigonometry by improving the sine tables of Aryabhatta, another renowned mathematician and astronomer. He refined the calculations and made them more accurate, which helped in various astronomical and mathematical calculations.
2. His Pancha Siddhantika is a treatise on five precepts of a pious life.
Varahamihira's work called Pancha Siddhantika is not related to the precepts of a pious life. Instead, it is a treatise on five astronomical systems or Siddhantas. These Siddhantas include Surya Siddhanta, Romaka Siddhanta, Paulisha Siddhanta, Vasishtha Siddhanta, and Paitamaha Siddhanta.
3. According to Varahmihira's works, he was educated in Kapitthaka.
There is no mention of Varahamihira being educated in Kapitthaka in his works or any other historical records. Therefore, this statement is incorrect.
Based on the above analysis, the correct answer is option 'D' - 1 and 3 only. Varahamihira contributed to trigonometry by improving the sine tables of Aryabhatta, but his Pancha Siddhantika is not related to the precepts of a pious life. Additionally, there is no evidence to suggest that he was educated in Kapitthaka.
Consider the following regarding Varahamihira: 1. He contributed to t...
- Varahamihira made some important mathematical discoveries. Among these are certain trigonometric formulae:
(a) Sine tables were his other important contribution to trigonometry, where he improved those of Aryabhatta I by giving more accurate values.
(b) The accuracy was very important for the Indian mathematicians, since they were computing sine tables for astrology and astronomy applications.
- The Pancha Siddhantika (The Five Astronomical Canons) dated 575 AD was the most famous work by Varahamihira.
(a) This work gives us information about older Indian texts, which are now lost.
(b) It is a treatise on mathematical astronomy and it summarises five earlier astronomical treatises, namely, the Surya, Romaka, Paulisa, Vasistha and Paitamaha Siddhantas.
- Varahamihira was educated in Kapitthaka. He worked at Ujjain, which was an important centre for mathematics since around 400 AD. The school of mathematics at Ujjain gained prominence due to Varahamihira working there and it continued to be one of the two leading mathematical centres in India, and Brahmagupta as its next major figure.