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A machine is a mechanical, electric, or electronic device capable of performing work. Its usefulness derives from the ability to modify the total energy used to achieve a task. A simple machine changes the direction or quantity of applied force through a mechanical advantage, such as leverage, and it usually accomplishes this in a single motion. More complex machinery can have multiple simple machines performing in tandem, along with a wide range of moving parts. These machines can reduce the amount of labor necessary to complete a task by redistributing energy expenditure in a manner more efficient than that of direct manual effort. Whether molding, casting, forming, cutting, assembling, inspecting, or packaging, machines can be found at nearly every level of industrial manufacturing in both automated and operator-controlled form.

Generally, a tool is a piece of equipment that increases the effectiveness of an operation involving two or more objects. The most basic types of tools are simple machines, such as a hammer or a crowbar, that rely on a single motion to perform their work. Complex tools, such as torches, punches, or sanders, usually have multiple moving parts and require several stages of motion to finish their task. Tools are useful accessories at the foundation of many industrial projects, and have a wide array of applications, including cutting, shaping, transporting, fastening, guiding, or shielding, to name just a few.

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