"In Harappan Civilization exchanges were regulated by a precise system of weights, usually made of a stone called chert and generally cubical, with no markings."
In the light of the above statement what do the Harappan weights indicate?
(a) Lower denominations of weights were binary.
(b) Higher denominations followed the decimal system.
(c) Smaller weights were probably used for weighing jewellery and beads.
(d) Metal scale-pans are missing from Harappan sites.

Choose the correct answer from the code given below:

Correct option is A

The correct answer is (a), (b) and (c).
The statement describes the material and shape of the weights, but the questions relate to the system of weights, which is a key indicator of the Harappan civilization's economic and administrative sophistication.

Indicators of Harappan Weights System

The study of the Harappan weights (usually made of chert and cubical) found at sites like Mohenjo-daro and Harappa reveals a highly precise and standardized system of measurement.

(a) Lower denominations of weights were binary. Correct. The weights found follow a strict binary progression in the lower denominations: $1, 2, 4, 8, 16, 32$, and so on. The unit weight is approximately $13.6$ grams.

(b) Higher denominations followed the decimal system. Correct. After the weight of 64 units, the progression shifts, and the higher weights follow a decimal system (multiples of 100 or 10). This mixed system indicates a sophisticated approach to standardization for different scales of exchange.

(c) Smaller weights were probably used for weighing jewelry and beads. Correct. The smallest most precisely made weights would have been essential for accurately measuring small, high-value items like gold, silver, jewellery, and beads, which were central to trade and craftsmanship.

(d) Metal scale-pans are missing from Harappan sites. Incorrect. While most weights are stone, scale-pans and beams have indeed been found at Harappan sites. They are typically made of copper or bronze.Therefore, the indicators of the Harappan weights are (a), (b), and (c).