R.A.S./R.T.S. (Pre) 2012

Ancient Technology

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

The first metal used by man was:

Solution & Analysis

Answer: C

Concept The end of the Stone Age was marked by the discovery of metal-working, starting with metals found in native form.

Explanation Archaeological evidence globally, including at sites like Mehrgarh, confirms that Copper was the first metal to be smelted and used for making tools and ornaments (c. 5000 BCE).

Logical Breakup
Copper (C): The pioneer metal of the Chalcolithic age.
Iron (D): Used much later (c. 1000 BCE in India), requiring much higher temperatures for smelting.
Gold/Silver: Were used early but were too soft and rare for tool-making; they were primarily for prestige/ornaments.

Active Recall

Question

Why was iron discovered so much later than copper?

Answer

Smelting iron requires a much higher temperature (around 1538°C) than copper, necessitating advanced kiln technology.

Core Insight

The use of copper changed human history by providing tools that were sharper, more durable, and easily repairable compared to stone.