Architecture Practice Exam

How does a claw hammer differ from a ball peen hammer?

1. A ball peen hammer has a steelhead used for pulling nails.

2. A claw hammer is designed for metal working with a rounded head.

3. A claw hammer is used to curve nails while a ball peen hammer has a flat and a rounded head for metal work.

4. A ball peen hammer is used for electrical work while the claw hammer is not.

The correct answer is: A claw hammer is used to curve nails while a ball peen hammer has a flat and a rounded head for metal work.

The distinction between a claw hammer and a ball peen hammer is clearly highlighted in the correct choice. A claw hammer is specifically designed with a dual-purpose head: it features a flat side for driving nails into wood and a claw side that allows for the pulling of nails. This versatility makes it ideal for general carpentry and woodworking tasks. On the other hand, the ball peen hammer, which has a flat striking surface and a rounded (or peen) end, is primarily designed for metalworking purposes. The rounded end is particularly useful for shaping metal or closing rivets, while the flat side can be used for striking. This makes the ball peen hammer less suited for tasks like pulling nails or driving them into wooden surfaces. The other options do not accurately reflect the unique functions and designs of the two hammers. For instance, suggesting that a ball peen hammer is used for pulling nails or specifically for electrical work misrepresents its intended use in metalworking. Likewise, the description of a claw hammer’s function does not align with its actual capabilities. Overall, the differences in design and intended use between these two types of hammers underscore their respective applications in woodworking and metalworking contexts.