TOOL
Name: Tool
A tool or device is a piece of equipment which typically provides a mechanical
advantage in accomplishing a physical task, or provides an ability that is not
naturally available to the user of a tool. The most basic tools are simple
machines. For example, a crowbar simply functions as a lever. The further out
from the pivot point, the more force is transmitted along the lever. When
particularly intended for domestic use, a tool is often called a utensil.
Observation has confirmed that multiple species can use tools, including monkeys,
apes, several birds, sea otters, and others. Philosophers originally thought
that only humans had the ability to make tools, until zoologists observed birds
and monkeys making tools. Now humans' unique relationship to tools is
considered to be that we are the only species that uses tools to make other
tools.
Most anthropologists believe that the use of tools was an important step in the
evolution of mankind. Humans evolved an opposable thumb - useful in holding
tools - and increased dramatically in intelligence, which aided in the use of
tools.
Some tools can also serve as weapons, such as a hammer or a knife. Similarly,
people can use weapons, such as explosives, as tools.
Name: Tool
A tool or device is a piece of equipment which typically provides a mechanical
advantage in accomplishing a physical task, or provides an ability that is not
naturally available to the user of a tool. The most basic tools are simple
machines. For example, a crowbar simply functions as a lever. The further out
from the pivot point, the more force is transmitted along the lever. When
particularly intended for domestic use, a tool is often called a utensil.
Observation has confirmed that multiple species can use tools, including monkeys,
apes, several birds, sea otters, and others. Philosophers originally thought
that only humans had the ability to make tools, until zoologists observed birds
and monkeys making tools. Now humans' unique relationship to tools is
considered to be that we are the only species that uses tools to make other
tools.
Most anthropologists believe that the use of tools was an important step in the
evolution of mankind. Humans evolved an opposable thumb - useful in holding
tools - and increased dramatically in intelligence, which aided in the use of
tools.
Some tools can also serve as weapons, such as a hammer or a knife. Similarly,
people can use weapons, such as explosives, as tools.