Question:
According to Vaiśeṣika theory of atomism, which one of the following is NOT atomic?
According to Vaiśeṣika theory of atomism, which one of the following is NOT atomic?
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In Vaiśeṣika philosophy, the basic elements are divided into atomic (earth, fire, air) and non-atomic (ether) categories.
Updated On: Nov 21, 2025
- Ether (\={a}kāśa)
- Earth (pṛthvī)
- Fire (tejas)
- Air (vāyu)
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The Correct Option is A
Solution and Explanation
Step 1: Understanding Vaiśeṣika Theory of Atomism.
The Vaiśeṣika school of philosophy in India is known for its atomic theory, where it categorizes all substances into atomic and non-atomic elements. According to this theory, the basic elements of the world include earth, water, fire, air, and ether. However, ether (ākāśa) is considered to be non-atomic because it is an infinite medium, unlike the other four elements, which are composed of atoms. Step 2: Analyzing the options.
- (A) Ether (\={a}kāśa): This is correct because ether is considered non-atomic in Vaiśeṣika theory.
- (B) Earth (pṛthvī): Earth is atomic in Vaiśeṣika theory.
- (C) Fire (tejas): Fire is atomic in Vaiśeṣika theory.
- (D) Air (vāyu): Air is atomic in Vaiśeṣika theory.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (A) Ether (\={a}kāśa), as it is not considered atomic in the Vaiśeṣika theory.
The Vaiśeṣika school of philosophy in India is known for its atomic theory, where it categorizes all substances into atomic and non-atomic elements. According to this theory, the basic elements of the world include earth, water, fire, air, and ether. However, ether (ākāśa) is considered to be non-atomic because it is an infinite medium, unlike the other four elements, which are composed of atoms. Step 2: Analyzing the options.
- (A) Ether (\={a}kāśa): This is correct because ether is considered non-atomic in Vaiśeṣika theory.
- (B) Earth (pṛthvī): Earth is atomic in Vaiśeṣika theory.
- (C) Fire (tejas): Fire is atomic in Vaiśeṣika theory.
- (D) Air (vāyu): Air is atomic in Vaiśeṣika theory.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (A) Ether (\={a}kāśa), as it is not considered atomic in the Vaiśeṣika theory.
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