Consider the following statements regarding the "Saptarishi": 1. It is a group of twelve stars. 2. It helps in locating the Pole Star. 3. It is a part of the Orion constellation. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

The correct option is (b). Explanation The "Saptarishi" is a prominent asterism (a recognizable pattern of stars) visible in the northern hemisphere. In Indian astronomy, it is associated with seven ancient sages, while in Western astronomy, it is known as the "Big Dipper" or the "Plough." - Statement 1 is Incorrect: The name "Saptarishi" is derived from Sanskrit, where "Sapta" means seven and "Rishi" means sages. Consequently, it is a group of seven stars, not twelve. - Statement 2 is Correct: The Saptarishi is traditionally used as a navigational aid to locate the Pole Star (Polaris). By drawing an imaginary line through the two "pointer stars" at the end of the asterism's bowl and extending it northwards, one reaches the Pole Star, which indicates the North direction. - Statement 3 is Incorrect: The Saptarishi forms a part of the Ursa Major (Great Bear) constellation. It is not part of the Orion constellation. Orion is a distinct constellation recognizable by the "Hunter" figure and the three aligned stars of Orion's Belt. Key Takeaway: The Saptarishi comprises seven stars, belongs to the Ursa Major constellation, and serves as a celestial guide to locate the North Star.

NCERT Class 6 Geography — Chapter 1: The earth in the solar system

mcqeasy

Consider the following statements regarding the "Saptarishi":

It is a group of twelve stars.
It helps in locating the Pole Star.
It is a part of the Orion constellation.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Official previous-year question

Verified 1 Aug 2026.

Options

A1 only
B2 only
C1 and 3 only
D1, 2 and 3

Did you get this right?

Solution

The correct option is (b).

Explanation

The "Saptarishi" is a prominent asterism (a recognizable pattern of stars) visible in the northern hemisphere. In Indian astronomy, it is associated with seven ancient sages, while in Western astronomy, it is known as the "Big Dipper" or the "Plough."

Statement 1 is Incorrect: The name "Saptarishi" is derived from Sanskrit, where "Sapta" means seven and "Rishi" means sages. Consequently, it is a group of seven stars, not twelve.
Statement 2 is Correct: The Saptarishi is traditionally used as a navigational aid to locate the Pole Star (Polaris). By drawing an imaginary line through the two "pointer stars" at the end of the asterism's bowl and extending it northwards, one reaches the Pole Star, which indicates the North direction.
Statement 3 is Incorrect: The Saptarishi forms a part of the Ursa Major (Great Bear) constellation. It is not part of the Orion constellation. Orion is a distinct constellation recognizable by the "Hunter" figure and the three aligned stars of Orion's Belt.

Key Takeaway: The Saptarishi comprises seven stars, belongs to the Ursa Major constellation, and serves as a celestial guide to locate the North Star.

Your note

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Consider the following statements regarding celestial bodies: 1. All celestial bodies emit their own heat and light in large amounts. 2. Stars are celestial bodies made up of gases. 3. The Sun is a celestial body that reflects the light of other stars. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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With reference to the phases of the Moon, consider the following statements: 1. The Full Moon can be seen only once in about a month’s time. 2. The New Moon night is also known as Poornima. 3. On Amavasya, the night sky can be watched best if it is a clear night. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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Which one of the following star groups is a recognizable part of the Ursa Major constellation?

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The term ‘Planet’ is derived from the Greek word ‘Planetai’, which translates to:

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The correct option is (b).

Explanation

Statement 1 is Incorrect: The name "Saptarishi" is derived from Sanskrit, where "Sapta" means seven and "Rishi" means sages. Consequently, it is a group of seven stars, not twelve.
Statement 2 is Correct: The Saptarishi is traditionally used as a navigational aid to locate the Pole Star (Polaris). By drawing an imaginary line through the two "pointer stars" at the end of the asterism's bowl and extending it northwards, one reaches the Pole Star, which indicates the North direction.
Statement 3 is Incorrect: The Saptarishi forms a part of the Ursa Major (Great Bear) constellation. It is not part of the Orion constellation. Orion is a distinct constellation recognizable by the "Hunter" figure and the three aligned stars of Orion's Belt.

Key Takeaway: The Saptarishi comprises seven stars, belongs to the Ursa Major constellation, and serves as a celestial guide to locate the North Star.