This is considered by some to be the ultimate tool. With its waterproof properties, it was quickly adopted for a specific military application when originally introduced. The US Government also has recommended that all homes have it available. Along with its waterproof properties, it is known for its superior bonding, is heat resistant, and is extremely strong. It is easy to use with no training required, and is widely available in various sizes and colors. NASA thinks so highly of this, it is included on every flight that leaves the launch pad. No home, military unit, or spacecraft should be without it. What type of tool is this?

oboewan

Duct tape. The military used it for waterproofing ammo boxes. http://www.ehow.com/about_5136368_duct-tape-waterproof.html Aug 15 09, 4:56 PM

ilikeguinness

Duct tape http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duct_tape Aug 15 09, 4:56 PM

queproblema

I'm having trouble defining duct tape as a "tool." * Main Entry: 1tool * Pronunciation: ˈtül * Function: noun * Etymology: Middle English, from Old English tōl; akin to Old English tawian to prepare for use — more at taw * Date: before 12th century 1 a : a handheld device that aids in accomplishing a task b (1) : the cutting or shaping part in a machine or machine tool (2) : a machine for shaping metal : machine tool 2 a : something (as an instrument or apparatus) used in performing an operation or necessary in the practice of a vocation or profession b : an element of a computer program (as a graphics application) that activates and controls a particular function c : a means to an end d often vulgar : penis 3 : one that is used or manipulated by another 4 plural : natural ability synonyms see implement http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tool Duct tape isn't an implement, but becomes part of the project. http://www.answers.com/topic/duct-tape I would call it a tape or an adhesive. Or, to avoid giving away the answer, a "material." Copy-and-paste from Wiki: Duct tape (sometimes called duck tape ) is a vinyl, fabric-reinforced, multi-purpose pressure sensitive tape with a soft and tacky pressure sensitive adhesive.... Duct tape's versatility and holding power are evidenced by its nickname in engineering circles: "the ultimate material." http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duct_tape Aug 15 09, 10:21 PM

zbeckabee

TOOL -- An item or implement used for a specific purpose. A tool can be a physical object such as mechanical tools including saws and hammers or a technical object such as a web authoring tool or software program. Furthermore, a concept can also be considered a tool. “Creativity is the tool which allows a child’s mind to grow.” http://www.businessdictionary.com/definition/tool.html Aug 16 09, 12:29 AM

queproblema

"A broad definition of a tool is an entity used to interface between two or more domains that facilitates more effective action of one domain upon the other." http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tool Duct tape doesn't interface between two or more domains. It gets stuck onto one domain as a patch or reinforcement or binding. Or it connects two domains. It doesn't facilitate more effective action of one domain upon the other. Duct tape becomes part of a domain rather than acting upon that domain. It is a component, not a tool. "COMPONENT and CONSTITUENT may designate any of the substances (whether elements or compounds) or the qualities that enter into the makeup of a complex product; component stresses its separate entity or distinguishable character . http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/element If a tool is an item or implement used for a specific purpose, thread is a tool since it's used for the specific purpose of holding clothes together. (Wouldn't the needle be the tool?) My front door is a tool because it's the specific item that keeps the weather and animals out of my house. No, I think a tool has to perform or help perform an action on something else without becoming an integral part of it. Thread (floss) is a tool when it's used to clean your teeth. The front door could be used as a tool to push snow off the porch. Well, there's my two dollar's worth, anyway.... Aug 16 09, 2:35 AM

zbeckabee

Thinking along the lines of computer tools (as they help you accomplish something), and as witnessed by the following, an even broader definition of "tool" will comfortably accommodate "duct tape": Turpin, Joanna R. "Duct Tape: The Ultimate Tool." Air Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration News 201, no. 16 (August 18, 1997): 9. NASA engineers' faith in duct tape as an "emergency tool" was rewarded in 1970, when the square carbon dioxide filters from Apollo 13's failed command module had to be modified to fit round receptacles in the lunar module, which was being used as a lifeboat after an explosion en route to the moon. Engineers designed a workaround using duct tape and other items on board Apollo 13, relaying directions to the spacecraft's crew. The lunar module CO2 scrubbers started working again, saving the lives of the three astronauts onboard. I think people are surprised that such a common, everyday "tool" can be utilized in space too, but I'd argue that this kind of versatile and strong tape should be in space doing its bit for space exploration. It seems NASA thinks the same thing. Back in 1972, the use of duct tape turned a potentially dangerous situation into mission success for the Apollo 17 astronauts. http://www.universetoday.com/2008/04/21/the-best-engineering-tool-in-space-duct-tape/ http://www.answers.com/topic/duct-tape http://en.allexperts.com/e/d/du/duct_tape.htm Aug 16 09, 8:07 PM