Consider the following statements relating to the use of the place-value system in India : 1. The earliest epigraphic use of the place-value system in India is found in the Mankani plates from Gujarat (AD 595 – 596). 2. In the ninth century, place-values become general in inscriptions all over India. 3. The place-values have been found in Sanskrit inscriptions in South-east Asia as early as the seventh century. Which of the statements given above are correct ?
A
1 and 2 only
B
1 and 3 only
C
2 and 3 only
D
1, 2 and 3
Correct answer
Explanation
The Mankani (Sankheda) copper plates from Gujarat, dated AD 595–596, are cited as the earliest epigraphic use of decimal place value in India. By the ninth century, place-value numerals were standard in inscriptions across India, and Sanskrit inscriptions in South-east Asia (Cambodia and Sumatra) already used place value, including zero, in the seventh century. All three statements are correct.
Ancient Indian HistoryScience and mathematics in ancient IndiaPlace-value systemMankani platesDecimal notationInscriptionsSouth-east Asia