Multiple choice

Which one of the following texts contains the earliest evidence on Indian mathematical writings?

  1. Aranyaka

  2. Ka/pasutra

  3. Nirukta

  4. Sulvasutra
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D Correct answer
Explanation

Sulvasutra is indeed the text containing the earliest evidence of Indian mathematical writings. The Sulbasutras (800-500 BCE) contain geometrical knowledge for constructing Vedic altars, including the Pythagorean theorem, value of pi, and square roots. Aranyakas are philosophical texts. Kalpasutra deals with rituals but not primarily mathematics. Nirukta is about etymology. The Sulbasutras are considered the earliest mathematical texts in India, showing knowledge of geometry, rational numbers, and algebraic concepts.

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