Key Concept: Representation of Zero

c) Bakhshali manuscript
[Solution Description]
The Bakhshali manuscript, dated around the 3rd century CE, contains the first known instance of zero represented as a dot. This was part of the Indian numeral system, which included digits 0 through 9.

Key Concept: Early human need for counting

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
[Solution Description]
The assertion states that early humans needed to count livestock for trade and survival, which is true as per the syllabus. The reason given is that counting helped them track the number of animals they owned, which is also true and directly explains why they needed to count livestock.

Key Concept: Mesopotamian numerals, Hindu-Arabic numeral system

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
[Solution Description]
First, let's verify the Assertion: The Mesopotamian numeral system indeed used a base-60 (sexagesimal) system, while the Hindu-Arabic numeral system uses base-10. This part of the Assertion is true.
Now, examine the Reason: The base of numeral systems often reflects practical human needs. For example, base-10 is common due to counting on 10 fingers, while base-60 (used in Mesopotamia) may have been chosen for its divisibility (useful in astronomy and timekeeping). Thus, the Reason is also true.
Does the Reason correctly explain the Assertion? Yes, because the difference in bases between the two systems can be attributed to their different practical and cultural contexts, as stated in the Reason.
Therefore, both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

Key Concept: Ancient Indian Numerals

c) A dot
[Solution Description]
In the Bakhshali manuscript, which dates back to the 3rd century CE, the digit zero was represented as a dot.

Key Concept: Historical Number Systems

c) India
[Solution Description]
The Hindu-Arabic numeral system, which includes the digits 0 through 9, originated in India around 2000 years ago. It was later transmitted to the Arab world and then to Europe.

Key Concept: Origin of Modern Numbers, Transmission of Indian Numerals

c) Bakhshali manuscript
[Solution Description]
The Bakhshali manuscript, dating back to the 3rd century CE, is known for its use of a dot ($\cdot$) to represent zero. This was one of the earliest documented uses of zero in the Indian numeral system.

Key Concept: Origin of Numbers, Hindu-Arabic Numerals

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
[Solution Description]
The Assertion states that the digit 0 being introduced as a number revolutionized mathematics. This is true because, before its introduction, computations were limited. The Reason explains how zero was treated as a number with specific arithmetic properties, which is also true. Moreover, the Reason correctly explains the Assertion since these properties of zero enabled more advanced mathematical operations and theories to develop, such as algebra and analysis. Therefore, both the Assertion and Reason are true, and the Reason correctly explains the Assertion.

Key Concept: Spread of numerals, historical timelines

d) 17th century
[Solution Description]
The Hindu-Arabic numeral system was introduced to Europe by Fibonacci around 1200 CE but faced resistance. It became widely adopted only by the 17th century after overcoming initial skepticism and proving its efficiency in calculations.

Key Concept: Origin of Numbers

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
[Solution Description]
The Assertion states that the Indian number system introduced zero as a number with arithmetic properties, which is correct as per historical evidence. The Reason explains that Aryabhata and Brahmagupta formalized its use, leading to advancements in mathematics, which is also historically accurate. Moreover, the Reason correctly justifies why the Assertion is true, as it elaborates on the role of Indian mathematicians in developing the concept of zero.

Key Concept: Hindu Number System

d) Al-Khwārizmī
[Solution Description]
The Hindu number system was popularized in the Arab world by Al-Khwārizmī through his book "On the Calculation with Hindu Numerals" around 825 CE.

Key Concept: Mesopotamian numerals, Indian numeral system, spread of numbers

a) 45
[Solution Description]
Mesopotamians used a base-60 (sexagesimal) system. The number 45 in their system would be represented as $45_{60}$. To convert to decimal, we calculate:
$4 \times 60^1 + 5 \times 60^0 = 4 \times 60 + 5 \times 1 = 240 + 5 = 245.$
However, the question asks for representing 45 in their symbols and converting back to decimal, so the correct answer is 45 itself.

Key Concept: Indian numeral system, evolution of zero

c) Defining arithmetic properties of zero
[Solution Description]
Brahmagupta formalized the arithmetic rules for zero as both a digit and a number. He defined operations like addition ($a + 0 = a$) and subtraction ($a - 0 = a$), which were crucial for modern mathematics. The Bakhshali manuscript introduced zero as a dot, but Brahmagupta expanded its use.

Key Concept: Tally Marks

b) As a lunar calendar or counting aid.
[Solution Description]
The Lebombo bone's notches suggest it might have been used as a lunar calendar, tracking phases of the moon over time. Alternatively, it could have served as a simple tally stick to count objects like days, animals, or resources, given the prehistoric context where such markers were common for record-keeping.

Key Concept: Number Representation

b) 26
[Solution Description]
The English alphabet consists of 26 letters ('a' to 'z'). In Method 2, each letter represents a unique number, starting from 'a' for 1 up to 'z' for 26. Therefore, the maximum number that can be represented using this method is 26.

Key Concept: One-to-One Mapping

b) No pebble should be used more than once for mapping.
[Solution Description]
In the one-to-one mapping method, each object (stone in this case) is uniquely paired with another object (pebble). The total number of pebbles will exactly match the number of stones if the mapping is correctly done, ensuring no two stones are mapped to the same pebble and no pebble is left unmapped.

Key Concept: One-to-one mapping, Counting with sticks

a) 18
[Solution Description]
In Method 1, each stick represents one goat. If the shepherd has 23 sticks but 5 are broken, those broken sticks do not correspond to any goats.
Calculation:
Total sticks = 23
Broken sticks = 5
Effective sticks (representing goats) = $23 - 5 = 18$
Therefore, the shepherd has 18 goats.

Key Concept: One-to-One Mapping, Roman Number System

b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is NOT the correct explanation of Assertion.
[Solution Description]
The Assertion states that the Roman number system is an unending standard sequence for counting because it introduces new symbols for larger numbers. This is true as the Roman system uses combinations of symbols (like I, V, X, L, C, D, M) to represent larger numbers. However, the Reason states that the Roman number system does not require an infinite set of unique symbols, which is also true but does not fully explain why it is considered "unending." The system's unending nature comes from its ability to combine existing symbols in specific ways, not merely from avoiding an infinite set of symbols. Hence, both are true, but Reason does not correctly explain Assertion.

Key Concept: One-to-one mapping in counting

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
[Solution Description]
The assertion states that sticks were used for counting cows in the Stone Age through one-to-one mapping. This is true because historical evidence supports the use of tally marks or objects like sticks for counting. The reason explains that this method prevents duplication by associating each cow with a unique stick, which is also correct and directly justifies the assertion.

Key Concept: Mayan Number System

b) Bar (――)
[Solution Description]
In the Mayan number system, a dot (⋅) represents 1, a bar (――) represents 5, and a shell symbol represents 0. Therefore, the symbol used to represent the number 5 is the bar (――).

Key Concept: Mayan Number System, Hindu Number System

d) Assertion is false, but Reason is true.
[Solution Description]
The Assertion states that the Mayan system's use of a placeholder for zero was as advanced as the Hindu number system. This is false because while the Mayans did use a placeholder for zero, they did not treat it as a number with arithmetic properties like the Hindus did. The Reason claims that both systems recognized zero as both a digit and a number with arithmetic properties, which is also false because the Mayans only used zero as a placeholder, not as a number. Therefore, both Assertion and Reason are false.

Key Concept: Use of Body Parts

c) People in Papua New Guinea
[Solution Description]
The syllabus mentions that people in Papua New Guinea used their body parts as the standard sequence/number system for counting.

Key Concept: Mayan Number System

c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
[Solution Description]
The Assertion is correct because the Mayan number system indeed used a dot for 1 and a bar for 5 for representing numbers from 1 to 19. However, the Reason is false because their system was not a strict base-20 system; it had modifications where landmark numbers included 360 and 7200 instead of powers of 20 beyond $20^1$.

Key Concept: Mayan Number System, Roman Number System

b) CCLXI
[Solution Description]
To solve this problem, we first need to convert the given Mayan number into its decimal equivalent. The Mayan number has two bars and three dots in the 20s place and one dot in the 1s place.
Step 1: Calculate the value of the 20s place.
- Each bar represents 5, so two bars represent $2 \times 5 = 10$.
- Each dot represents 1, so three dots represent $3 \times 1 = 3$.
- Total value in the 20s place is $(10 + 3) \times 20 = 13 \times 20 = 260$.
Step 2: Calculate the value of the 1s place.
- One dot in the 1s place represents $1 \times 1 = 1$.
Step 3: Add the values from both places to get the total decimal value.
- Total decimal value is $260 + 1 = 261$.
Step 4: Convert the decimal value 261 to Roman numerals.
- 261 = 200 (CC) + 60 (LX) + 1 (I) = CCLXI.
Therefore, the correct Roman numeral representation is CCLXI.

Key Concept: Extension of Body Parts Counting System

c) 27
[Solution Description]
Since the system uses both sides symmetrically:
Step 1: Total unique parts per side = 15.
Step 2: Right knee is 12th part, so left knee will be $12 + 15 = 27$.
Step 3: Hence, left knee corresponds to the 27th count.

Key Concept: Body Parts Counting System, Limitations

b) Right elbow
[Solution Description]
To find the 50th count in a repeating sequence of 27 body parts:
Step 1: Divide 50 by 27 to find the complete cycles and remainder.
Step 2: $50 ÷ 27 = 1$ cycle with a remainder of $23$.
Step 3: The 50th count corresponds to the 23rd body part in the sequence.

Key Concept: Scalability of Body Parts Counting System

c) 16
[Solution Description]
Given each joint counts as 5 units:
Step 1: Wrist (6) to elbow (11) covers $11 - 6 = 5$ units (as expected).
Step 2: Similarly, elbow (11) to shoulder will also cover 5 units.
Step 3: Thus, right shoulder = $11 + 5 = 16$.

Key Concept: Name representation

b) ta ta
[Solution Description]
Given the additive nature of the system:
Step 1: We have representations for 1 ('la'), 2 ('ta') and 3 ('na')
Step 2: For 4, it would combine existing symbols through addition
Possible logical combinations:
'ta ta' (2+2=4)
'la na' (1+3=4)
'na la' (3+1=4)
The simplest form would be combining the largest available numbers

Key Concept: Body-Part Number Representation

d) Index finger of the left hand
[Solution Description]
According to the given sequence, the number $4$ is represented by the index finger of the left hand.

Key Concept: Body-Part Number Representation

c) Shoulder of the right arm
[Solution Description]
From the given sequence, after the right ear ($12$), the next body part is the shoulder of the right arm ($13$).

Key Concept: Tally Marks and Early Number Systems

a) Representing lunar phases
[Solution Description]
The Ishango bone, discovered in the Democratic Republic of Congo, features notches arranged in columns. These markings are thought to represent numbers and may indicate a calendrical system or tally counting method.

Key Concept: Counting Methods

b) To make counting easier and more efficient
[Solution Description]
Early humans found it difficult to count more than 4 or 5 objects at a glance due to perceptual limits. Grouping tally marks in sets (e.g., 5) made counting and representation more efficient, leading to the development of more advanced number systems.

Key Concept: Tally Marks and Early Counting Methods

b) Counting objects by making individual marks
[Solution Description]
Tally marks were one of the oldest methods used to represent numbers by making notches on surfaces like bones or cave walls. Each mark represented a single object being counted, and the collection of marks indicated the total count. This method was simple and did not require physical objects like sticks or pebbles.

Key Concept: Historical Number Systems

c) It is among the earliest known tally systems
[Solution Description]
The Lebombo bone, found in South Africa, has 29 notches and is one of the oldest mathematical artifacts (around 44,000 years old). Its markings suggest it was used as a tally stick or lunar calendar.

Key Concept: Tally Marks on Bones and Other Surfaces

c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
[Solution Description]
The Assertion states that the Ishango bone's tally marks are arranged in columns, possibly indicating a calendrical system. Archaeological evidence supports this claim, as the notches on the Ishango bone are grouped in patterns that may represent lunar cycles or other time-keeping methods.
The Reason claims that tally marks on ancient bones were solely used for simple counting. However, this is false because archaeological findings like the Ishango and Lebombo bones suggest these tally marks had more complex uses beyond just counting, such as tracking lunar months or calendrical systems.
Thus, the Assertion is true, but the Reason is false.

Key Concept: Counting in groups, Human perception limit

c) 33
[Solution Description]
Each new symbol represents 7 marks, so 4 symbols represent $4 \times 7 = 28$ marks. Adding the 5 separate marks gives the total count: $28 + 5 = 33$.

Key Concept: Number Names by Counting in Twos

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
[Solution Description]
The Assertion states that the Gumulgal number system uses counting in twos to form number names. This is true as per the syllabus, where it is mentioned that numbers are counted in 2s (e.g., $3 = 2 + 1$, $4 = 2 + 2$, etc.).
The Reason provides an example: the number name for 5 is ukasar-ukasar-urapon, which translates to 2 + 2 + 1. This correctly demonstrates the counting-in-twos pattern described in the Assertion. Therefore, both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason correctly explains the Assertion.

Key Concept: Number names by counting in twos

a) ras
[Solution Description]
According to the Gumulgal system:
- Numbers greater than 6 are called "ras."
- The exact representation for numbers beyond 6 is not detailed, but since 9 = 6 + 3, and 6 is represented as ukasar-ukasar-ukasar, we can infer that 9 might be represented as "ras" with some additional notation or context.
However, based on the given information, any number >6 is simply called "ras."
Therefore, 9 would also be called "ras."

Key Concept: Number names by counting in twos

c) ahage ahage ahage
[Solution Description]
From the syllabus:
- Bushmen represent numbers as follows:
1: tokale
2: ahage
3: ahage tokale (or ahawao)
4: ahage ahage tokale
5: ahage ahage ahage
So, 5 is directly given as ahage ahage ahage.

Key Concept: Number Names by Counting in Twos

d) $\text{azag\^{a} azag\^{a}}$​
[Solution Description]

In the Bakairi number system, $\text{tokalȃ}$ represents 1 and $\text{azagȃ}$ represents 2. Larger numbers are formed by combining these basic number words. Therefore, the number 4 is represented as:

2 + 2 = 4

So, 4 is written as:

$\text{azagȃ azagȃ}$​

Some sources also write it as $\text{azagȃ azagȃ}$, using a simplified spelling.

Key Concept: Number Names in Gumulgal System

d) ukasar-ukasar-urapon
[Solution Description]
In the Gumulgal system, numbers are formed by counting in twos. For 5, the representation is $2 + 2 + 1$, which translates to ukasar-ukasar-urapon.

Key Concept: Number names by counting in twos, Bakairi system

b) t'oa-t'oa-t'oa-t'oa
[Solution Description]
The Bakairi system counts in twos:
1: xa
2: t'oa
3: 'quo
4: t'oa-t'oa
5: t'oa-t'oa-t'a
6: t'oa-t'oa-t'oa
To represent 8, we note that 8 = 6 + 2. Since 6 is t'oa-t'oa-t'oa and 2 is t'oa, the logical extension would be t'oa-t'oa-t'oa-t'oa.

Key Concept: Roman Numeral Addition

b) XIX
[Solution Description]
First, convert both Roman numerals to Hindu-Arabic numbers:
Step 1: XII = 10 + 1 + 1 = 12.
Step 2: VII = 5 + 1 + 1 = 7.
Step 3: Add them together: 12 + 7 = 19.
Step 4: Convert 19 back to Roman numerals: 19 = 10 + 9 = XIX.
Therefore, the sum is XIX.

Key Concept: Representation of Numbers

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
[Solution Description]
To verify Assertion (A), let's break down the Roman numeral $MDCLXVI$:
- M = 1000
- D = 500
- C = 100
- L = 50
- X = 10
- V = 5
- I = 1
Adding them up: $1000 + 500 + 100 + 50 + 10 + 5 + 1 = 1666$. So, Assertion is true.
Reason (R) states that symbols are added from left to right in descending order. This is correct because in $MDCLXVI$, the symbols are ordered as M (1000), D (500), C (100), L (50), X (10), V (5), I (1), which follows descending order. Moreover, Reason correctly explains why the assertion is true, as this ordering rule ensures accurate addition. Thus, both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

Key Concept: Roman numerals and landmark numbers

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
[Solution Description]
To convert 999 to Roman numerals:
900 is represented as CM (1000 - 100),
90 as XC (100 - 10),
and 9 as IX (10 - 1).
Thus, 999 = CMXCIX, confirming the Assertion.
The Reason correctly explains that the subtractive principle (like IV for 4 or IX for 9) was used but not always consistently, as mentioned in the syllabus regarding the representation of 40 as XL or XXXX.

Key Concept: Roman Numeral Representation

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
[Solution Description]
To represent 45 in Roman numerals:
1. Start with the largest landmark number less than or equal to 45, which is L (50).
2. Since 40 is 10 less than 50, we write XL (where X is 10 and L is 50).
3. Add V (5) to make it 45, resulting in XLV.
The Reason correctly explains the subtraction rule used in the Assertion (X before L means 50 - 10 = 40).

Key Concept: Landmark Numbers Identification

c) C
[Solution Description]
According to the landmark numbers listed in the syllabus, C represents 100 in Roman numerals.
Step 1: Refer to the table: C = 100.
Therefore, the correct option is C.

Key Concept: Roman numerals representation, complex cases

a) MMMCMXCIX
[Solution Description]
To represent 3999 in Roman numerals:
1. Break down 3999 into its largest possible components: $1000 + 1000 + 1000 + (1000 - 100) + (100 - 10) + (10 - 1)$.
2. Substitute the Roman symbols: $M$ for $1000$, $CM$ for $900$ ($1000 - 100$), $XC$ for $90$ ($100 - 10$), and $IX$ for $9$ ($10 - 1$).
3. Combine them: $M + M + M + CM + XC + IX = MMMCMXCIX$.

Key Concept: Landmark Numbers

c) 1, 7, 49, 343
[Solution Description]
In a base-n system, the landmark numbers are the powers of n starting from $n^0 = 1$. For a base-7 system, the landmark numbers are:
$7^0 = 1, \quad 7^1 = 7, \quad 7^2 = 49, \quad 7^3 = 343, \quad \dots$
Therefore, the landmark numbers are 1, 7, 49, 343, and so on.

Key Concept: Concept merging, Base comparison

c) 1210 in base-4
[Solution Description]
Step 1: Find the largest power of 4 less than or equal to 100.
$4^3 = 64$ is the largest.
Step 2: Divide 100 by 64. Quotient is 1, remainder is $100 - 64 = 36$.
Step 3: Divide 36 by $4^2 = 16$. Quotient is 2, remainder is $36 - 32 = 4$.
Step 4: Divide 4 by $4^1 = 4$. Quotient is 1, remainder is 0.
Step 5: Final representation is $1 \times 4^3 + 2 \times 4^2 + 1 \times 4^1 + 0 \times 4^0 = 1210$ (base-4).

Key Concept: Concept merging, Base-n arithmetic

c) 97 in base-10
[Solution Description]
Step 1: Convert both numbers to base-10.
For 124 (base-5):
$1 \times 5^2 + 2 \times 5^1 + 4 \times 5^0 = 25 + 10 + 4 = 39$
For 213 (base-5):
$2 \times 5^2 + 1 \times 5^1 + 3 \times 5^0 = 50 + 5 + 3 = 58$
Step 2: Add them:
$39 + 58 = 97$ in base-10.

Key Concept: Advantage of Base-n Systems

b) Because multiplication in base-n involves only addition of exponents
[Solution Description]
In a base-n system, the landmark numbers are powers of n, so multiplying two landmark numbers results in another landmark number (e.g., $10^a \times 10^b = 10^{a+b}$). This simplifies multiplication because it reduces to adding exponents. In contrast, the Roman numeral system does not have landmark numbers as powers of a fixed base, making multiplication complex and less systematic.

Key Concept: Base of a Number System

b) A system with landmark numbers 1, 5, 25, 125
[Solution Description]
A base-5 number system has landmark numbers as powers of 5, such as $5^0 = 1$, $5^1 = 5$, $5^2 = 25$, etc.

Key Concept: Base-5 Number System

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
[Solution Description]
The assertion states that 143 can be represented as $125 + 5 + 5 + 5 + 1 + 1 + 1$ in a base-5 system. This is correct because $125 = 5^3$, $5 = 5^1$, and $1 = 5^0$, which are all valid landmark numbers in the base-5 system. The reason states that the landmark numbers in a base-5 system are powers of 5, which is also true. Moreover, the reason correctly explains the assertion since the representation of 143 uses powers of 5, which are the landmark numbers in this system.

Key Concept: Multiplication in Egyptian Numerals

b) 1000
[Solution Description]
In the Egyptian system, multiplying a landmark number by 10 shifts it to the next higher landmark number. Since:
$100 = 10^2 \\ \\ 10 = 10^1 \\ \\ 100 \times 10 = 10^2 \times 10^1 = 10^3 = 1000$
The result is 1000.

Key Concept: Egyptian Number System - Representation

a) A single symbol for $10$
[Solution Description]
The Egyptian number system uses landmark numbers based on powers of $10$. The first landmark number is $1$, and the second landmark number is obtained by grouping $10$ collections of $1$, which gives $10$.

Key Concept: Grouping by Different Base

d) 25
[Solution Description]
In this system:
$1^{st} \text{ landmark } = 1 \\ \\ 2^{nd} \text{ landmark } = 5 \times 1 = 5 \\ \\ 3^{rd} \text{ landmark } = 5 \times 5 = 25$
Thus, the third landmark number is 25.

Key Concept: Variations on the Egyptian System

b) 25
[Solution Description]
In a base-5 system, landmark numbers are generated as follows:
- First landmark number: 1 ($5^0$).
- Second landmark number: 5 ($5^1$).
- Third landmark number: $5 × 5 = 25$ ($5^2$).

Key Concept: Multiplication in Egyptian Numerals

c) 1000
[Solution Description]
In the Egyptian system, each multiplication of a landmark number by 10 results in the next landmark number:
- $10 × 1 = 10$ (second landmark number).
- $10 × 10 = 100$ (third landmark number).
- Therefore, $10 × 100 = 1000$ (fourth landmark number).

Key Concept: Variations on the Egyptian System - Grouping

d) $25$
[Solution Description]
When grouping by $5$, the first landmark number is $1$. The second landmark number is $5$ (grouping $5$ collections of $1$). The third landmark number is obtained by grouping $5$ collections of $5$, which equals $25$.

Key Concept: Egyptian System Multiplication

b) 10
[Solution Description]
The first landmark number in the Egyptian system is 1, and the second landmark number is 10. The product of these two numbers is $1 \times 10 = 10$.

Key Concept: Base-4 System, Addition

b) $1020_4$
[Solution Description]
First, convert both numbers to decimal:
$123_4 = 1 \times 4^2 + 2 \times 4^1 + 3 \times 4^0 = 16 + 8 + 3 = 27$.
$231_4 = 2 \times 4^2 + 3 \times 4^1 + 1 \times 4^0 = 32 + 12 + 1 = 45$.
Sum in decimal: $27 + 45 = 72$.
Now, convert 72 to base-4:
$72 \div 4 = 18$ with remainder $0$,
$18 \div 4 = 4$ with remainder $2$,
$4 \div 4 = 1$ with remainder $0$,
$1 \div 4 = 0$ with remainder $1$.
Reading remainders from bottom to top: $1020_4$.

Key Concept: Multiplication in Base-7

a) $130_7$
[Solution Description]
First, convert $20_7$ and $5_7$ to base-10:
$20_7 = 2 \times 7^1 + 0 \times 7^0 = 14_{10} \\ \\ 5_7 = 5 \times 7^0 = 5_{10}$
Multiply them in base-10:
$14 \times 5 = 70_{10}$
Convert back to base-7 by dividing by powers of 7:
$70 \div 49 = 1 \text{ with remainder } 21 \\ \\ 21 \div 7 = 3 \text{ with remainder } 0 \\ \\ 0 \div 1 = 0 \text{ with remainder } 0$
Combining the coefficients gives $130_7$.

Key Concept: Landmark Numbers in Base-4

d) $16$
[Solution Description]
In any base-$n$ system, landmark numbers are powers of the base. The first three landmark numbers for base-4 are:
$1 = 4^0 \\ \\ 4 = 4^1 \\ \\ 16 = 4^2$
Thus, the third landmark number is 16.

Key Concept: Base-5 Number System

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
[Solution Description]
The assertion states that the third landmark number in a base-5 system is 25. This is correct because:
- First landmark number: 1
- Second landmark number: $5 \times 1 = 5$
- Third landmark number: $5 \times 5 = 25$
The reason explains that each new landmark number is obtained by multiplying the previous landmark number by 5, which is true for any base-n system. Here, the reason correctly explains why the assertion is true since it demonstrates how the third landmark number (25) is derived from the second (5).
Therefore, both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

Key Concept: Efficient Representation

c) It allows unique representation of numbers using a fixed set of digits.
[Solution Description] The base-n system allows every number to be uniquely represented using digits from $0$ to $n-1$, eliminating the need for multiple symbols for different landmark numbers.

Key Concept: Efficient Representation, Simplified Arithmetic

b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is NOT the correct explanation of Assertion.
[Solution Description]
First, we need to verify the assertion (A). Converting 143 to base-5:
Step 1: Find the largest power of 5 less than or equal to 143, which is $5^3 = 125$.
Step 2: Divide 143 by 125 to get quotient 1 and remainder 18.
Step 3: Next, divide 18 by $5^2 = 25$, but since 25 > 18, the coefficient is 0.
Step 4: Now divide 18 by $5^1 = 5$ to get quotient 3 and remainder 3.
Step 5: Finally, divide the remainder 3 by $5^0 = 1$ to get coefficient 3.
Thus, $143_{10} = 1 \times 5^3 + 0 \times 5^2 + 3 \times 5^1 + 3 \times 5^0 = 1033_5$. This representation is indeed more efficient than non-positional systems.
Now, check the reason (R): The base-n system simplifies arithmetic by using powers of the base for grouping, which is true. However, this does not directly explain why $143_{10}$ can be represented as $1033_5$, as stated in the assertion. Hence, both are true, but the reason does not correctly explain the assertion.

Key Concept: Base-n representation, Arithmetic operations

d) $101_7$
[Solution Description]
First, convert both numbers from base-7 to base-10:
$43_7 = 4 \times 7^1 + 3 \times 7^0 = 28 + 3 = 31_{10}$
$25_7 = 2 \times 7^1 + 5 \times 7^0 = 14 + 5 = 19_{10}$
Add them in base-10: $31 + 19 = 50_{10}$
Now, convert $50_{10}$ back to base-7:
Find the largest power of 7 less than or equal to 50, which is $7^2 = 49$.
$50 \div 49 = 1$ with remainder $1$.
Next, $1 \div 7^0 = 1$ with remainder $0$.
So, $50_{10} = 1 \times 7^2 + 0 \times 7^1 + 1 \times 7^0 = 101_7$.

Key Concept: Simplified Arithmetic

c) Because of the positional value of digits.
[Solution Description] The positional nature of the base-n system makes operations like addition and subtraction systematic, as they involve digit-wise calculations with carry-over.

Key Concept: Representation Comparison

b) Roman numerals lack fixed landmark numbers, while base-n systems use powers of n.
[Solution Description]
In the Roman numeral system, landmark numbers (like I, V, X, L, etc.) do not follow a fixed multiplicative pattern. For example, grouping is not uniform (e.g., V is 5, but X is 10; there is no consistent multiplier). In contrast, a base-n system groups numbers strictly in powers of n, making arithmetic operations systematic.

Key Concept: Shortcomings of Egyptian System

c) It uses positional notation to represent values.
[Solution Description]
The Egyptian number system had several limitations, including the need for new symbols for larger numbers, lack of positional value, and absence of a zero symbol. However, it did not have the limitation of requiring complex calculations for addition and subtraction, as these operations were relatively straightforward in the system.

Key Concept: Shortcomings of the Egyptian System

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
[Solution Description]
The Assertion states that the Egyptian number system needed new symbols for higher powers of 10, which is true because it used landmark numbers without a base concept. The Reason correctly identifies the absence of positional notation and zero in the system, which are key shortcomings. The reason directly explains why the assertion is true, as the lack of these features necessitated distinct symbols for each power of 10.

Key Concept: Symbol repetition in Egyptian numerals

a) No, because each symbol can only be repeated up to 9 times before moving to the next higher power of 10.
[Solution Description]
The Egyptian numeral system uses distinct symbols for powers of 10. Each symbol is used up to 9 times before moving to the next higher power of 10. Hence, no symbol can be repeated 10 or more times in a valid representation.

Key Concept: Shortcomings of Egyptian System

b) It involved complex calculations for simple multiplications.
[Solution Description]
In the Egyptian system, multiplication was more complex compared to addition and subtraction. It required understanding that each landmark number is a power of 10 and applying this logic manually for each operation. For example, multiplying $10 \times 100$ required recognizing that the product is $1000$.

Key Concept: Shortcomings of Egyptian System

b) It required new symbols for every power of 10.
[Solution Description]
The Egyptian system required a unique symbol for each power of 10. As numbers grew larger, new symbols had to be invented continuously, making the system cumbersome and impractical for very large numbers. For example, representing $10^7$ required a new symbol, and even larger numbers would demand more symbols.

Key Concept: Base-60 System Conversion

a) $2 \times 60 + 5$
[Solution Description]
To convert 125 to base-60, divide it by 60:
125 ÷ 60 = 2 with a remainder of 5.
Therefore, 125 = 2 × 60 + 5.
In the Mesopotamian base-60 system, this is represented as two 60s and five 1s.

Key Concept: Place Value Representation, Zero in Number Systems

b) It allowed unambiguous place value representation and advanced arithmetic
[Solution Description]
The introduction of zero as both a digit and a number was significant because:
1. It allowed unambiguous representation of numbers in a place value system (e.g., distinguishing 205 from 25).
2. It enabled arithmetic operations involving zero (e.g., addition and multiplication properties).
3. It laid the foundation for advanced mathematical concepts like negative numbers and algebra.

Key Concept: Place Value Representation

b) 497
[Solution Description]
Calculate step-by-step:
$4 \times 10^2 = 400 \\ \\ 9 \times 10 = 90 \\ \\ 7 \times 1 = 7 \\ \\ \text{Sum} = 400 + 90 + 7 = 497$

Key Concept: Place Value Representation

b) A sideways/corner wedge
[Solution Description]

In the Mesopotamian number system, numbers were written using cuneiform wedge-shaped symbols. A vertical wedge was used to represent 1, while a sideways or corner wedge was used to represent 10. Therefore, the symbol for 10 in the Mesopotamian number system was the sideways/corner wedge.

Sideways or corner wedge = 10​

Key Concept: Place Value Representation

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
[Solution Description]
The assertion states that the Hindu number system is superior due to its base-10 place value system with zero, which is true. The reason explains why this is the case by highlighting zero's role in preventing ambiguity and enabling arithmetic operations, which correctly explains the assertion. Thus, both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.

Key Concept: Mesopotamian Number Representation

a) $(2,12)_{60}$
[Solution Description]

The Mesopotamian or Babylonian number system used base 60. This means numbers were grouped according to powers of 60.

To convert 132 into base 60:

132 = 2 × 60 + 12

So, 132 has 2 groups of 60 and 12 units.

Therefore, the Mesopotamian representation is:

$(2,12)_{60}$​​

So, the correct answer is Option A.

Key Concept: Symbol Representation

b) A corner wedge or sideways wedge
[Solution Description]
The Mesopotamians used a sexagesimal numeral system, which was based on the number 60. In their cuneiform writing, the number 1 was represented by a vertical wedge, while the number 10 was represented by a corner wedge or sideways wedge. These symbols were combined to write larger numbers. Therefore, the correct answer is a corner wedge or sideways wedge.

Key Concept: Conversion to decimal, multi-step interpretation

b) 24
[Solution Description]
To decode this:
1. Two symbols for 10 represent $2 \times 10 = 20$.
2. Four symbols for 1 represent $4 \times 1 = 4$.
3. Since there is no higher power of 60, this is simply $20 + 4 = 24$.
4. However, if this were in the "60s" place, it would be $(20 + 4) \times 60 = 1440$.
5. The question implies the simplest case (units place only) due to lack of positional context.

Key Concept: Positional representation, conversion from decimal

c) Three symbols for 60 followed by three symbols for 1
[Solution Description]
To convert 183 to the Mesopotamian system:
1. Divide 183 by 60: $183 \div 60 = 3$ with remainder $3$.
2. The number consists of $3 \times 60^1 + 3 \times 60^0$ = 3 groups of 60 and 3 units.
3. The Mesopotamian representation would show 3 symbols for 60 (each being a symbol for 10 repeated three times) followed by 3 symbols for 1 (since they used base-60).

Key Concept: Mesopotamian Number System

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
[Solution Description]
The Assertion (A) is true as the Mesopotamian number system indeed used a base-60 (sexagesimal) system. The Reason (R) is also true because base-60 was chosen due to its divisibility properties, which simplified calculations for trade and astronomical observations. Moreover, the Reason correctly explains why the Mesopotamians adopted the base-60 system. Therefore, both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

Key Concept: Conversion from Hindu-Arabic to Mayan

a) Top level: 1 dot; Middle level: 2 dots; Bottom level: 2 dots
[Solution Description]

Key Concept: Mayan Number System

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
[Solution Description]
The Mayan number system indeed uses a placeholder symbol for zero, which resembles a seashell. This assertion is true. The reason states that this placeholder symbol helps indicate an empty place value in the positional notation, which is also true and correctly explains why the Mayans used a placeholder symbol. Hence, both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

Key Concept: Mayan addition

c) 274
[Solution Description]
Convert both numbers to Hindu-Arabic first:
1. First Number:
- Top level ($\overline{\ } \cdot$) = 5 + 1 = 6 units of 20.
- Bottom level ($\cdot \cdot \cdot$) = 1 + 1 + 1 = 3 units of 1.
- Total = $(6 \times 20) + 3 = 120 + 3 = 123$.
2. Second Number:
- Top level ($\overline{\ } \cdot \cdot$) = 5 + 1 + 1 = 7 units of 20.
- Bottom level ($\overline{\ } \overline{\ } \cdot$) = 5 + 5 + 1 = 11 units of 1.
- Total = $(7 \times 20) + 11 = 140 + 11 = 151$.
Sum = $123 + 151 = 274$.

Key Concept: Mayan Landmark Numbers

d) It aligned with their 360-day calendar system
[Solution Description]
The Mayan civilization used 360 as their third landmark number (after 1 and 20) instead of 400 because it was likely related to their calendar system. Their calendar had 360 days in a year (tun), which influenced their numerical system.

Key Concept: Place Value in Mayan System

c) One dot at the top and a seashell at the bottom ($\cdot$ over seashell)
[Solution Description]
In the Mayan place value system:
- The lower level represents units (1s), while the level above represents multiples of 20.
- For 20, we write one dot at the second level (representing $1 \times 20$) and a zero placeholder (seashell symbol) at the units level.
- The correct representation is a dot over a seashell symbol.

Key Concept: Chinese Number System - Place Value Representation

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
[Solution Description]
The Assertion states that the Chinese number system uses blank spaces to indicate skipped place values, which is true as per the syllabus. The Reason explains that this was possible due to the uniformity in symbol sizes, making blank spaces easier to locate compared to the Mesopotamian system. Both statements are true, and the Reason correctly explains the Assertion.

Key Concept: Place Value System Basics

b) blank space
[Solution Description]
The Chinese rod numeral system used a blank space to indicate the skipping of a place value, acting as a placeholder. This is explicitly stated in the syllabus under the description of the system.

Key Concept: Alternating Place Values

c) Zongs represent units, hundreds, tens of thousands; hengs represent tens, thousands, hundreds of thousands.
[Solution Description]
Zongs represent units, hundreds, tens of thousands, etc., while hengs represent tens, thousands, hundreds of thousands, etc. These alternate place values are fundamental to understanding the Chinese rod numeral system.

Key Concept: Place Value Representation

a) 6 (Heng), blank, 9 (Heng), blank
[Solution Description]
The number 6,090 can be expanded as:
$6 \times 1000 + 0 \times 100 + 9 \times 10 + 0 \times 1$.
Hence, the representation is:
6 (Heng for thousands),
0 (Zong for hundreds - blank space or zero symbol),
9 (Heng for tens),
0 (Zong for units - blank space or zero symbol).

Key Concept: Chinese vs other systems, comparative analysis

d) Fully developed place value system
[Solution Description]
Key advancement shared by both:
1) Used distinct symbols for digits 1-9 (unlike cumulative systems)
2) Had clear positional notation where each position represented a power of 10
3) Both could represent zero (though Chinese used blank spaces initially)
4) This combination made calculations more efficient than non-positional or partial-positional systems

Key Concept: Landmark Numbers

c) $10^2$
[Solution Description]
In the Hindu number system, landmark numbers are powers of 10. The hundreds place corresponds to $10^2$, which equals 100.

Key Concept: Landmark Numbers

b) Hundreds
[Solution Description]
In the Hindu number system, landmark numbers are powers of 10. Here, $10^2$ represents $10$ multiplied by itself twice, which equals $100$. This is known as the "hundreds" place.

Key Concept: Place Value, Multi-Concept

b) $100A + 10B + C$
[Solution Description]
In the Hindu number system, a three-digit number $\overline{ABC}$ can be expanded using place values as follows:
$A$ is in the hundreds place: $A \times 10^2 = 100A$
$B$ is in the tens place: $B \times 10^1 = 10B$
$C$ is in the ones place: $C \times 10^0 = C$
Therefore, the expanded form is $100A + 10B + C$.

Key Concept: Place Value Representation

a) $4 \times 100 + 2 \times 10 + 6 \times 1$
[Solution Description]
The number 426 can be expanded using place values as follows:
$4$ is in the hundreds place: $4 \times 10^2 = 400$
$2$ is in the tens place: $2 \times 10 = 20$
$6$ is in the units place: $6 \times 1 = 6$
Adding them together: $400 + 20 + 6 = 426$.
So, the correct expanded form is $4 \times 10^2 + 2 \times 10 + 6 \times 1$.

Key Concept: Place Value System, Hindu Number System

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
[Solution Description]
The Assertion states that the Hindu number system's use of 0 as both a digit and a number eliminated ambiguity and enabled efficient computation. This is true because the positional value system relies on 0 to represent absence in a place without altering the value of other digits. The Reason states that Brahmagupta codified the arithmetic properties of zero, treating it as a number, which is also true and directly explains why the system could handle computations efficiently. The Reason provides the conceptual basis for the Assertion, making it the correct explanation.