: This page discusses common devices known as "tools". For the band, see Tool (band). For other meanings, see Tool (disambiguation).
A tool is, among other things, a device that provides a mechanical or mental advantage in accomplishing a task.
Most tools employ some form of simple machine, or a combination of them. For example, a hammer simply functions as a lever with the fulcrum (pivot point) being the hand of the user. The further out from the pivot point, the more force is transmitted along the lever. A sword combines a lever and a wedge.
Philosophers once thought that only humans used tools, and often defined humans as tool-using animals. But observation has confirmed that chimpanzees and other animals, mostly primates, but also some birds ( ravens, for instance) can use tools as well. Most anthropologists believe that the use of tools itself intertwined with the opposable thumb (useful to hold the tools) and an increase in intelligence (aiding in the use of tools) in spurring along the evolution of humankind.
Most tools can also serve as weapons, such as the hammerFor the sport, see Hammer throw. For other uses see Hammer (disambiguation . A hammer is a tool meant to deliver blows to a target, causing it to move or deform. The most common uses are for driving nails, fitting parts, and breaking up objects. Hammers a and the knifeNorse knife A knife is a sharp-edged hand tool used for cutting. A knife usually consists of a blade, usually less than 12 inches (30cm) in length, attached to a handle. The blade of a knife is usually pointed and may have one or two cutting edges. Knives. Similarly, people can use weapons, such as explosives, as tools.
1 Varieties of tools
An instrumentAn instrument is a concrete or abstract tool intended for a purpose other than mechanical work, in particular a refined one. Musical instruments are devices designed to produce music, frequently by plucking or striking a string or bell or drum surface, or is a concrete or abstract tool, in particular a refined one.
1.1 Physical tools
- Hand toolA hand tool is a device for doing a particular job that does not use a motor, but is powered solely by the person using it. Examples are almost endless, from general tools like the hammer to specific tools like callipers. Virtually every type of tool cans such as pliersPliers are hand tools primarily for gripping and cutting that use leverage and numerous different jaw configurations to grip, turn, pull, cut or crimp a variety of things. They are a tool common to many dexterous trades and occupations. History Pliers wer, adzeThe tool known as the adze serves for smoothing rough-cut wood in hand woodworking. Generally, the user stands astride a board or log and swings the adze downwards towards their feet, chipping off a piece of wood, and walking backwards as they go, leaving, axe, chisel, drill, file, hammer, Halligan bar, machete, plane, saw, screwdriver, shovel, stone tool, straightedge, rake, ruler, tire iron, scissors, wrenches.
- Agricultural tools such as scythe, sickle.
- Power tools such as crusher, drill, paper shredder, power grader , wire bonder , wood router.
- Machine tools such as Lathe, Milling machine, Shaping Machine, Grinding machine, Pillar Drill.
- Hydraulic tools such as the Hurst tool or hydraulic ram.
- Heat-based tools such as soldering irons, welding torches and thermic lances
- Eating utensils such as chopsticks, fork, knife, spoon.
- Food preparation utensils
- Cleaning utensils, e.g. a brush, including toothbrush and broomstick, a cloth, a washing- glove, and cloths for drying, often after washing, e.g. a towel.
- Writing instruments such as ballpoint pen, brush, fountain pen, pencil, quill, stylus.
- Measuring instruments, Musical instruments
- Special use tools: Buggy whip, Ox goad, dildo, vibrator, knife sharpener , hair dryer, egg poker , flat iron
- Multitools: Swiss Army knife, Leatherman
- Sports equipment : Jump rope, Punching bag, Chess pieces, Pommel horse (gymnastics)
- Other household implements such as backscratcher, bottle opener, can opener, fan, flyswatter, syringe, toothbrush, washcloth (or flannel).
Toy tools make popular playthings. Some simply consist of a cheap or small version of the real thing, such as a shovel and bucket to use on the beach or in a sandbox. Others are less functional, e.g. a dull plastic knife, or not functional at all.
