Identify the correct statements about Harappan 'weighing system'.
(A) Harappan exchanges were regulated by a precise system of weights.
(B) Weights were made of chert.
(C) Weights were generally square.
(D) Lower denominations of weights were binary.
(E) Metal scale-pans were also used for weighing.
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → (A), (B), (D), (E) Only
(A) Harappan exchanges were regulated by a precise system of weights. Correct. Exchanges were regulated by a precise system of weights.
(B) Weights were made of chert. Correct. The weights were usually made of a stone called chert.
(C) Weights were generally square. Incorrect. The weights were generally cubical, with no markings. A square is a flat shape; a cube is a solid with six square faces.
(D) Lower denominations of weights were binary. Correct. The lower denominations were binary (1, 2, 4, 8, 16, 32), while the higher denominations followed the decimal system (160, 200, 320, 640).
(E) Metal scale-pans were also used for weighing. Correct. Metal scale-pans have also been found.
NCERT (2026-27): “7.3 Weights … Exchanges were regulated by a precise system of weights, usually made of a stone called chert and generally cubical (Fig. 1.2), with no markings. The lower denominations of weights were binary (1, 2, 4, 8, 16, 32), while the higher denominations followed the decimal system (160, 200, 320, 640). The smaller weights were probably used for weighing jewellery and beads. Metal scale-pans have also been found.” |