Question

Which of the following technique is known as free flaking technique ?

• A. Block-on-Block Technique
• B. Direct Percussion Technique
• C. Cylinder Hammer Technique
• D. Pressure Flaking Technique

Hint:

Direct percussion involves striking a core freely with a hammer stone and is therefore called a free flaking technique.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Concept: Stone tool making techniques in prehistoric archaeology are classified according to:
• Method of striking,
• Control over flake removal,
• Tool shaping process,
• Nature of percussion. Flaking techniques were extremely important during the Paleolithic period because early humans depended heavily on stone tools for:
• Hunting,
• Cutting,
• Scraping,
• Food processing,
• Defense.

Step 1: Understanding Free Flaking Technique. Free flaking refers to: \[ \text{Removal of flakes by striking freely with a hammer stone} \] This technique does not involve:
• Fixed support,
• Controlled pressure shaping,
• Stationary anvils. Instead, flakes are detached through: \[ Direct striking action \] Thus, free flaking is associated with: \[ \boxed{\text{Direct Percussion Technique}} \]

Step 2: Analyzing Block-on-Block Technique. Block-on-block technique involves:
• Striking one stone block against another,
• Crude fracture production,
• Early core reduction. It is not specifically identified as free flaking. Therefore: \[ \text{Option (A) is incorrect} \]

Step 3: Analyzing Cylinder Hammer Technique. Cylinder hammer technique uses:
• Specialized hammer forms,
• More controlled percussion. It is not the standard term for free flaking. Hence: \[ \text{Option (C) is incorrect} \]

Step 4: Analyzing Pressure Flaking Technique. Pressure flaking involves: \[ \text{Controlled removal of small flakes using pressure} \] This technique is highly refined and different from free striking methods. Thus: \[ \text{Option (D) is incorrect} \]

Step 5: Final conclusion. The technique known as free flaking technique is: \[ \boxed{\text{Direct Percussion Technique}} \] Hence, the correct answer is: \[ \boxed{\text{(B) Direct Percussion Technique}} \]