QUES . Discuss the significant advances made in the field of science of astronomy, mathematics, and medicine during the Gupta period. UPSC IES/ISS EXAM 2022 General Studies. 200 Words. 5 Marks
HINTS:
The Gupta period, which spanned from the 4th to the 6th century CE in India, was a time of great progress in the fields of astronomy, mathematics, and medicine. Here are some significant advances made during this period:
Astronomy
• Aryabhata, a famous astronomer, and mathematician wrote the Aryabhatiya, which contains significant contributions to the field of astronomy. He proposed a heliocentric model of the solar system, calculated the value of pi to four decimal places, and accurately calculated the length of a year.
• Varahamihira, another notable astronomer, wrote the Panchasiddhantika, which synthesizes the five main astronomical systems of the time. He also accurately calculated the length of a day and a year and proposed that the moon has a gravitational effect on the tides.
Mathematics
• The decimal system, including the concept of zero, was developed during this period. This system revolutionized mathematics and paved the way for modern mathematics.
Genius mathematician and astronomer Aryabhata wrote Surya Siddhanta which covered several aspects of geometry, trigonometry and cosmology.
• Aryabhata also made significant contributions to mathematics, including the calculation of square roots and the use of algebraic expressions.
Medicine
In the field of medicine the great medical trio of ancient India; Vagbhata, Charaka and Susruta belonged to this period.
• Susruta, a renowned physician, wrote the Susruta Samhita, which is one of the earliest known texts on surgery. He described hundreds of surgical procedures, including plastic surgery, and emphasized the importance of cleanliness and sanitation during medical procedures.
• Charaka, another prominent physician, wrote the Charaka Samhita, which is a comprehensive text on Ayurvedic medicine. This text provides detailed descriptions of diseases, their causes, and treatments, as well as recommendations for healthy living.
Dhanvantri’s discoveries helped the Indian medicinal system of Ayurveda become more refined and efficient. Doctors were skilled in surgical practices and inoculation against contagious diseases was performed.
Overall, the Gupta period was a time of great progress in the fields of astronomy, mathematics, and medicine. These advancements laid the foundation for future scientific discoveries and greatly impacted the development of science and technology in India and around the world.
