Warfare is an element of the human experience since the beginning of time. While warfare is a destructive force, it also is a very creative force as many technologies have been developed as a result of the need to win a war. As new technologies developed so did warfare.
Simple Tools
The earliest implementation of scientific principles in warfare relate to the basic weapons that were produced. It has been hypothesized that rocks either thrown or used as a bludgeoning tool were the first weapons used by humans. As humans experimented with various warfare techniques they discovered how simple scientific tools could be used to improve their weapons. For example, the theory of the lever was used to create clubs and axes that could be used for a weapon.
Complex Tools
As humans experimented more with basic tools they learned how to create more complex tools. These complex tools were then used to develop more effective weapons. Projectiles, for example, that used complex tools and a basic understanding of aerodynamics led to the development of spears and sling shots. These allowed humans to attack an opponent from a distance. As their understanding of aerodynamics improved and their tool science improved more advanced projectile launchers were developed, including the bow and arrow and the compound bow.
Chemistry
The science of chemistry changed warfare the most for humans. It not only provided the ability for humans to create weapons that were strong, sharp and more malleable than stone and wooden weapons, but it also provided them with the ability to create more destructive weapons.
The first chemical advancement that humans made was the science of metallurgy. This science explored the methodology of extracting pure metals from metal ores. It also focused on how to create weapons from the metal that was extracted through molding, forming, hammering and sharpening the metal shapes. Copper was one of the first metals to be extracted and used as a material for weapons. Bronze was the first metal alloy to be created in 4000 B.C. The alloy was stronger and more durable than copper. Smelting iron was developed in 1250 B.C. by the Hittites who discovered that heating iron with charcoal create an extra strong veneer on the iron that was basically a layer of steel that was created by a chemical bonding of the carbon from the charcoal and the iron.
Explosives were the next chemical advancement to be discovered by humans. The Chinese had for centuries been using gunpowder to power their fireworks. However, in the 13th century a European weapons expert began to experiment with the compound and the weapon applications of this compound were developed.
Firearms
As a result of the development of gunpowder a wide range of firearms were developed. These weapons changed the face of warfare for ever. Battles were bloodier and more destructive than ever before as the firearms reduced the amount of skill needed to fight in a war, as well as provide a more power killing weapon.
In the 1500s hand held firearms were developed. By the 1600s the design of firearms had improved and long range projectiles were possible to launch using gunpowder and cannons. The first real improvement to the accuracy and reliability of a firearm came in 1836 when Samuel Colt invented the Colt Revolver. In 1903 the Ross Rifle was introduced. Then in 1947 the first automatic hand held firearm was developed, the AK 47. These weapons influenced both modern warfare and popular culture for generations to come.
Author Resource:
I am an educational specialist. Over the last several decades I have worked to get kids excited about science and about the exploration and innovation of science concepts and solutions. http://www.super-science-fair-projects.com
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