1.
Which of these textiles was one of the achievements of ancient India?
Correct Answer
A. Cotton
Explanation
Cotton was one of the achievements of ancient India because it was one of the earliest cultivated crops in the region and played a significant role in the textile industry. Ancient Indians developed advanced techniques for spinning and weaving cotton, creating high-quality fabrics that were highly sought after in trade. The production and export of cotton textiles were important economic activities in ancient India, contributing to its prosperity and cultural development.
2.
Which one of these is a unique feature of ancient Chinese medicine?
Correct Answer
A. Acupuncture
Explanation
Acupuncture is a unique feature of ancient Chinese medicine. It involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow and promote healing. This practice is based on the belief that the body has a network of channels through which energy, known as Qi, flows. By manipulating these channels through acupuncture, balance and harmony can be restored to the body, treating various ailments and promoting overall well-being. Acupuncture is still widely practiced today and is recognized as a distinct and influential component of traditional Chinese medicine.
3.
Which printing technique was used to create the oldest known printed text, the Diamond Sutra?
Correct Answer
B. Block printing
Explanation
The correct answer is block printing. Block printing is a technique in which an image or text is carved onto a block of wood or metal, and then ink is applied to the block and transferred onto paper or fabric. The Diamond Sutra, the oldest known printed text, was created using this method. This technique allowed for the mass production of texts, making it a significant development in the history of printing. Batik painting, stone carvings, and typewriters are not related to the creation of the Diamond Sutra.
4.
Which period in ancient Indian history saw the development of mathematical concepts such as the decimal system, pi (Ï€) and zero?
Correct Answer
D. Gupta Period
Explanation
The Gupta Period in ancient Indian history saw the development of mathematical concepts such as the decimal system, pi (Ï€), and zero. During this time, mathematicians like Aryabhata and Brahmagupta made significant contributions to the field of mathematics. Aryabhata introduced the concept of zero and decimal place value system, while Brahmagupta provided rules for arithmetic operations involving zero and negative numbers. These advancements in mathematics during the Gupta Period laid the foundation for future mathematical developments in India and had a profound impact on the world.
5.
What does a seismograph, an ancient Chinese invention, indicate?
Correct Answer
B. When and in which direction an earthquake had occurred
Explanation
The seismograph is an ancient Chinese invention that is designed to measure and record seismic activity, specifically earthquakes. It is able to indicate when and in which direction an earthquake has occurred by detecting and measuring the vibrations caused by the seismic waves. By analyzing the data recorded by the seismograph, scientists can determine the location, magnitude, and other characteristics of the earthquake.
6.
What heavily influenced landscape painting in ancient China?
Correct Answer
C. Taoism and Confucianism
Explanation
Landscape painting in ancient China was heavily influenced by Taoism and Confucianism. Taoism emphasized the harmony between humans and nature, and landscape painting was seen as a way to capture and express this harmony. Confucianism valued the moral and ethical values of nature, and landscape painting was used to convey these values. Both philosophies emphasized the connection between humans and the natural world, making landscape painting an important medium for expressing these beliefs.
7.
In ancient India, what do many of the sculptures, paintings and stone temples depict?
Correct Answer
D. The life of Buddha or feature Hindu gods
Explanation
Many of the sculptures, paintings, and stone temples in ancient India depict the life of Buddha or feature Hindu gods. This is because Buddhism and Hinduism were the dominant religions during that time, and these artworks were created to honor and represent their beliefs and deities. These depictions served as a way to convey religious teachings, stories, and legends, and were often used as objects of worship and meditation.
8.
Besides town planning, in what was the compass used?
Correct Answer
B. In sea voyages
Explanation
The compass was also used in sea voyages. This is because the compass provides a reliable method for sailors to navigate and determine their direction at sea. By using the compass, sailors can accurately plot their course and avoid getting lost in the vast expanse of the ocean. The compass has been a crucial tool for centuries in enabling successful sea voyages and exploration.
9.
What knowledge is revealed by the discovery of bronze spear-points and iron bangles in northeast Thailand?
Correct Answer
C. Metallurgy
Explanation
The discovery of bronze spear-points and iron bangles in northeast Thailand suggests that the people of ancient Southeast Asia had knowledge of metallurgy. This is because the presence of these metal objects indicates that they were able to manipulate and work with different metals, such as bronze and iron, which requires knowledge and skills in metallurgy. This finding provides evidence of the technological advancements and metalworking capabilities of ancient Southeast Asian civilizations.
10.
In Southeast Asia, what do the many religious monuments showing devotion to gods reflect?
Correct Answer
A. Architectural achievements
Explanation
The correct answer is architectural achievements. This is because religious monuments are a form of architecture that showcases the skills, creativity, and cultural significance of a civilization. These monuments are often built with intricate designs, advanced engineering techniques, and artistic craftsmanship, reflecting the architectural achievements of the people who built them.
11.
How was gunpowder used?
Correct Answer
A. In fireworks and for war purposes
Explanation
Gunpowder was used in fireworks and for war purposes because of its explosive properties. It was commonly used in fireworks to create colorful and dazzling displays by igniting and propelling the pyrotechnic effects. Additionally, gunpowder was extensively used in warfare for its ability to create powerful explosions, which were utilized in cannons, firearms, and other weapons. Its combustion properties made it an effective tool for military purposes, allowing for the launching of projectiles and causing destruction on the battlefield.
12.
In which ancient civilization was plastic surgery already in existence in 600 BCE?
Correct Answer
C. India
Explanation
In ancient India, plastic surgery was already in existence by 600 BCE. The practice of plastic surgery, known as rhinoplasty, was performed to reconstruct or reshape the nose. This can be traced back to the ancient text called Sushruta Samhita, written by Sushruta, who is considered the father of plastic surgery. The text describes various surgical techniques and procedures, including nose reconstruction using skin grafts. This demonstrates that plastic surgery was well-developed in ancient India, making it the correct answer to the question.
13.
Ancient Southeast Asia's knowledge of what was useful in rice-farming?
Correct Answer
C. Hydraulic engineering
Explanation
Ancient Southeast Asia's knowledge of hydraulic engineering was useful in rice-farming. Hydraulic engineering involves the construction and management of water systems, such as irrigation canals and reservoirs, which are essential for rice cultivation. The ability to control and distribute water efficiently allowed ancient Southeast Asians to cultivate rice on a large scale, ensuring a stable food supply. This knowledge of hydraulic engineering played a crucial role in their agricultural practices and contributed to their success in rice-farming.
14.
Which one of these is an example of one of the earliest ancient Indian literature?
Correct Answer
A. The Vedas
Explanation
The Vedas are considered one of the earliest ancient Indian literature. They are a collection of religious texts and hymns that were composed in Sanskrit and form the foundation of Hinduism. The Vedas are believed to have been written between 1500 and 500 BCE and provide insights into the religious, cultural, and social aspects of ancient Indian civilization. They are highly revered and are considered to be the oldest scriptures in the world.
15.
Where did the literature forms hikayat (story of a warrior) and syair (long poem) originate?
Correct Answer
D. Malay-speaking parts of Southeast Asia.
Explanation
The hikayat and syair are traditional forms of literature that originated from the Malay-speaking parts of Southeast Asia. These texts were written in the Malay language and reflected the cultural and historical experiences of the people in this region. They were not from China, India, or the Chinese-speaking parts of Southeast Asia.